1998 BMW 318 vs. 1999 Saab 03-Sep
To start off, 1999 Saab 03-Sep is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 318 would be higher. At 2,171 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Saab 03-Sep is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 BMW 318 (140 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 1999 Saab 03-Sep. (123 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW 318 should accelerate faster than 1999 Saab 03-Sep. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Saab 03-Sep weights approximately 255 kg more than 1998 BMW 318.
Because 1998 BMW 318 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 318. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Saab 03-Sep, 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, 1999 Saab 03-Sep (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 318. (180 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 1999 Saab 03-Sep will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 318.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 318 | 1999 Saab 03-Sep | |
| Make | BMW | Saab |
| Model | 318 | 03-Sep |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1895 cc | 2171 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.5 mm | 98 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 209 km/hour | 247 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.9 seconds | 9.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1275 kg | 1530 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 68 L |
