1998 BMW 317 vs. 1990 Saab 900
To start off, 1998 BMW 317 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Saab 900. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Saab 900 would be higher. At 1,985 cc (4 cylinders), 1990 Saab 900 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 Saab 900 (100 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 1998 BMW 317. (89 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1990 Saab 900 should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 317. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 317 weights approximately 175 kg more than 1990 Saab 900.
Because 1998 BMW 317 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 317. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1990 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, 1998 BMW 317 (190 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Saab 900. (162 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1998 BMW 317 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Saab 900.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 317 | 1990 Saab 900 | |
| Make | BMW | Saab |
| Model | 317 | 900 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1990 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1665 cc | 1985 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 162 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1355 kg | 1180 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2530 mm |
