1998 BMW 330 vs. 1979 Saab 900
To start off, 1998 BMW 330 is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Saab 900. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Saab 900 would be higher. At 2,793 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 BMW 330 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 BMW 330 (190 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 1979 Saab 900. (143 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW 330 should accelerate faster than 1979 Saab 900. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 330 weights approximately 145 kg more than 1979 Saab 900. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 BMW 330 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 330. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1979 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 330 (281 Nm @ 3950 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Saab 900. (236 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1998 BMW 330 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Saab 900.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 330 | 1979 Saab 900 | |
| Make | BMW | Saab |
| Model | 330 | 900 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2793 cc | 1985 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 143 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 281 Nm | 236 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1395 kg | 1250 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2530 mm |
