1998 BMW 316 vs. 1979 Saab 900
To start off, 1998 BMW 316 is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Saab 900. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Saab 900 would be higher. At 1,985 cc (4 cylinders), 1979 Saab 900 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Saab 900 (143 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1998 BMW 316. (103 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1979 Saab 900 should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 316 weights approximately 110 kg more than 1979 Saab 900.
Because 1998 BMW 316 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 1998 BMW 316. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1979 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, 1979 Saab 900 (236 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 71 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 316. (165 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1979 Saab 900 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 316.
Compare all specifications:
1998 BMW 316 | 1979 Saab 900 | |
Make | BMW | Saab |
Model | 316 | 900 |
Year Released | 1998 | 1979 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1895 cc | 1985 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 103 HP | 143 HP |
Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 165 Nm | 236 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 8.5:1 |
Top Speed | 200 km/hour | 191 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1360 kg | 1250 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4750 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1700 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1380 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2530 mm |