1997 BMW S3 vs. 2011 Saab 05-Sep
To start off, 2011 Saab 05-Sep is newer by 14 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, 2011 Saab 05-Sep (300 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1997 BMW S3. (260 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Saab 05-Sep should accelerate faster than 1997 BMW S3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Saab 05-Sep weights approximately 560 kg more than 1997 BMW S3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 Saab 05-Sep is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 BMW S3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Saab 05-Sep will offer significantly more control. 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, 2011 Saab 05-Sep (400 Nm) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW S3. (330 Nm). This means 2011 Saab 05-Sep will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW S3. 2011 Saab 05-Sep has automatic transmission and 1997 BMW S3 has manual transmission. 1997 BMW S3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Saab 05-Sep will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW S3 | 2011 Saab 05-Sep | |
| Make | BMW | Saab |
| Model | S3 | 05-Sep |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 2800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 260 HP | 300 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1368 kg | 1928 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1862 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1468 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2837 mm |
