1999 BMW 318 vs. 1980 Saab 900
To start off, 1999 BMW 318 is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Saab 900. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Saab 900 would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 BMW 318 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 BMW 318 (140 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 1980 Saab 900. (108 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 BMW 318 should accelerate faster than 1980 Saab 900. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 BMW 318 weights approximately 218 kg more than 1980 Saab 900. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1999 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 1999 BMW 318. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 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, 1999 BMW 318 (200 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 36 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Saab 900. (164 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 1999 BMW 318 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Saab 900.
Compare all specifications:
1999 BMW 318 | 1980 Saab 900 | |
Make | BMW | Saab |
Model | 318 | 900 |
Year Released | 1999 | 1980 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1985 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 140 HP | 108 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Torque | 200 Nm | 164 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 3300 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 90 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 78 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 9.2:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1398 kg | 1180 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4750 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1700 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1430 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2530 mm |