1998 BMW 325 vs. 1981 Saab 900
To start off, 1998 BMW 325 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Saab 900. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Saab 900 would be higher. At 2,498 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 BMW 325 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 BMW 325 (114 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 1981 Saab 900. (100 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW 325 should accelerate faster than 1981 Saab 900. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 325 weights approximately 254 kg more than 1981 Saab 900. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 BMW 325 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 325. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 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 325 (220 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 58 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Saab 900. (162 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1998 BMW 325 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Saab 900.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 325 | 1981 Saab 900 | |
| Make | BMW | Saab |
| Model | 325 | 900 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2498 cc | 1985 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 162 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 22.0:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1434 kg | 1180 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2530 mm |
