1998 BMW 317 vs. 1990 Saab 9000
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 9000. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Saab 9000 would be higher. At 2,290 cc (4 cylinders), 1990 Saab 9000 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 Saab 9000 (197 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 108 more horse power than 1998 BMW 317. (89 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1990 Saab 9000 should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 317. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 Saab 9000 weights approximately 135 kg more than 1998 BMW 317. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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 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, 1990 Saab 9000 (330 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 140 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 317. (190 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1990 Saab 9000 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 317.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 317 | 1990 Saab 9000 | |
| Make | BMW | Saab |
| Model | 317 | 9000 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1990 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1665 cc | 2290 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 330 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1355 kg | 1490 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2670 mm |
