1998 BMW 316 vs. 1989 Saab 9000
To start off, 1998 BMW 316 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Saab 9000. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Saab 9000 would be higher. At 2,290 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Saab 9000 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Saab 9000 (150 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 1998 BMW 316. (106 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Saab 9000 should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Saab 9000 weights approximately 200 kg more than 1998 BMW 316. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1989 Saab 9000, 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 9000 (212 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 47 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 316. (165 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1989 Saab 9000 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 316.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 316 | 1989 Saab 9000 | |
| Make | BMW | Saab |
| Model | 316 | 9000 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1895 cc | 2290 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 106 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 212 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.5 mm | 90 mm |
| Top Speed | 192 km/hour | 203 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 1450 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2670 mm |
