1997 BMW 318 vs. 1989 Saab 900
To start off, 1997 BMW 318 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Saab 900. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Saab 900 would be higher. At 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Saab 900 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Saab 900 (185 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 71 more horse power than 1997 BMW 318. (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Saab 900 should accelerate faster than 1997 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 BMW 318 weights approximately 155 kg more than 1989 Saab 900.
Because 1997 BMW 318 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 1997 BMW 318. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 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, 1989 Saab 900 (273 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 105 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW 318. (168 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 1989 Saab 900 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW 318.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW 318 | 1989 Saab 900 | |
| Make | BMW | Saab |
| Model | 318 | 900 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1794 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 185 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 168 Nm | 273 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1445 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2720 mm |
