1997 BMW S3 vs. 2007 Saab 05-Sep
To start off, 2007 Saab 05-Sep is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 BMW S3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 BMW S3 would be higher. At 3,201 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 BMW S3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 BMW S3 (260 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 86 more horse power than 2007 Saab 05-Sep. (174 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW S3 should accelerate faster than 2007 Saab 05-Sep. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Saab 05-Sep weights approximately 302 kg more than 1997 BMW S3.
Because 1997 BMW S3 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 S3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 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, 2007 Saab 05-Sep (350 Nm) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW S3. (330 Nm). This means 2007 Saab 05-Sep will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW S3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW S3 | 2007 Saab 05-Sep | |
| Make | BMW | Saab |
| Model | S3 | 05-Sep |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 2958 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 260 HP | 174 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 18.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1368 kg | 1670 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2710 mm |
