1996 BMW Z3 vs. 1991 Saab 9000
To start off, 1996 BMW Z3 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Saab 9000. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Saab 9000 would be higher. At 2,793 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Saab 9000 (200 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 1996 BMW Z3. (184 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1991 Saab 9000 should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW Z3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Saab 9000 weights approximately 162 kg more than 1996 BMW Z3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1991 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, 1991 Saab 9000 (323 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 48 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW Z3. (275 Nm @ 3950 RPM). This means 1991 Saab 9000 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW Z3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW Z3 | 1991 Saab 9000 | |
| Make | BMW | Saab |
| Model | Z3 | 9000 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1991 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2793 cc | 2290 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 184 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 275 Nm | 323 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 90 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1302 kg | 1464 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 66 L |
