1998 BMW Z3 vs. 2005 Saab 03-Sep
To start off, 2005 Saab 03-Sep is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW Z3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW Z3 would be higher. At 2,793 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 BMW Z3 (191 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 2005 Saab 03-Sep. (173 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 2005 Saab 03-Sep. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Saab 03-Sep weights approximately 50 kg more than 1998 BMW Z3.
Because 1998 BMW Z3 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 Z3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 1998 BMW Z3 (280 Nm @ 3950 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Saab 03-Sep. (265 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1998 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Saab 03-Sep. 2005 Saab 03-Sep has automatic transmission and 1998 BMW Z3 has manual transmission. 1998 BMW Z3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Saab 03-Sep will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW Z3 | 2005 Saab 03-Sep | |
| Make | BMW | Saab |
| Model | Z3 | 03-Sep |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2793 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 191 HP | 173 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 265 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.1 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84.1 mm | 86 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1460 kg | 1510 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2680 mm |
