1998 Saab 900i vs. 2004 BMW 316
To start off, 2004 BMW 316 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Saab 900i. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Saab 900i would be higher. At 1,985 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Saab 900i is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Saab 900i (126 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 2004 BMW 316. (113 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Saab 900i should accelerate faster than 2004 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 BMW 316 weights approximately 40 kg more than 1998 Saab 900i.
Because 2004 BMW 316 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 2004 BMW 316. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Saab 900i, 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, 2004 BMW 316 (175 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Saab 900i. (170 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2004 BMW 316 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Saab 900i. 2004 BMW 316 has automatic transmission and 1998 Saab 900i has manual transmission. 1998 Saab 900i will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 BMW 316 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Saab 900i | 2004 BMW 316 | |
| Make | Saab | BMW |
| Model | 900i | 316 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1985 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 126 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 175 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 90 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.1:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 180 km/hour | 206 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11.5 seconds | 10.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1295 kg | 1335 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4690 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 63 L |
