1996 BMW Z3 vs. 2001 Saab 05-Sep
To start off, 2001 Saab 05-Sep is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW Z3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW Z3 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 36 more horse power than 2001 Saab 05-Sep. (165 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 2001 Saab 05-Sep.
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, 2001 Saab 05-Sep, 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, 2001 Saab 05-Sep (350 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW Z3. (275 Nm @ 3950 RPM). This means 2001 Saab 05-Sep will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW Z3. 1996 BMW Z3 has automatic transmission and 2001 Saab 05-Sep has manual transmission. 2001 Saab 05-Sep 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 | 2001 Saab 05-Sep | |
| Make | BMW | Saab |
| Model | Z3 | 05-Sep |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| 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 | 165 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 275 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 9.3:1 |
| Top Speed | 217 km/hour | 215 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 75 L |
