1996 BMW Z3 vs. 1985 Saab 9000
To start off, 1996 BMW Z3 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Saab 9000. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Saab 9000 would be higher. At 2,926 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW Z3 (201 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1985 Saab 9000. (173 HP @ 5300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 1985 Saab 9000. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Saab 9000 weights approximately 145 kg more than 1996 BMW Z3.
Because 1996 BMW Z3 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 Z3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1985 Saab 9000, 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, 1985 Saab 9000 (278 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 3 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW Z3. (275 Nm @ 3950 RPM). This means 1985 Saab 9000 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW Z3. 1996 BMW Z3 has automatic transmission and 1985 Saab 9000 has manual transmission. 1985 Saab 9000 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 BMW Z3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1996 BMW Z3 | 1985 Saab 9000 | |
Make | BMW | Saab |
Model | Z3 | 9000 |
Year Released | 1996 | 1985 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2926 cc | 1985 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 201 HP | 173 HP |
Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5300 RPM |
Torque | 275 Nm | 278 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 90.1 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 78 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 9.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1255 kg | 1400 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4630 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1430 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2720 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 54 L |