1996 BMW 535 vs. 1987 Saab 900
To start off, 1996 BMW 535 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Saab 900. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Saab 900 would be higher. At 3,498 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 BMW 535 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW 535 (235 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 1987 Saab 900. (175 HP @ 5300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW 535 should accelerate faster than 1987 Saab 900. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW 535 weights approximately 325 kg more than 1987 Saab 900. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 BMW 535 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1996 BMW 535. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1987 Saab 900, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1996 BMW 535 (320 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 47 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Saab 900. (273 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1996 BMW 535 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Saab 900.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW 535 | 1987 Saab 900 | |
| Make | BMW | Saab |
| Model | 535 | 900 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1987 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3498 cc | 1985 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 235 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 273 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.9 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 243 km/hour | 203 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1610 kg | 1285 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 63 L |
