1996 BMW M3 vs. 1980 Saab 900
To start off, 1996 BMW M3 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Saab 900. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Saab 900 would be higher. At 3,246 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW M3 (240 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 122 more horse power than 1980 Saab 900. (118 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1980 Saab 900. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW M3 weights approximately 278 kg more than 1980 Saab 900. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 BMW M3 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 M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 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 M3 (320 Nm) has 153 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Saab 900. (167 Nm). This means 1996 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Saab 900.
Compare all specifications:
1996 BMW M3 | 1980 Saab 900 | |
Make | BMW | Saab |
Model | M3 | 900 |
Year Released | 1996 | 1980 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3246 cc | 1985 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 240 HP | 118 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 320 Nm | 167 Nm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 9.2:1 |
Top Speed | 220 km/hour | 167 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1480 kg | 1202 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4950 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1700 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1430 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2720 mm |