1999 BMW X5 vs. 1980 Saab 900
To start off, 1999 BMW X5 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 4,398 cc (8 cylinders), 1999 BMW X5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 BMW X5 (282 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 174 more horse power than 1980 Saab 900. (108 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 BMW X5 should accelerate faster than 1980 Saab 900. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 BMW X5 weights approximately 1004 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 X5 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1980 Saab 900. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 BMW X5 will offer significantly more control. 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 X5 (439 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 275 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Saab 900. (164 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 1999 BMW X5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Saab 900.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 BMW X5 | 1980 Saab 900 | |
| Make | BMW | Saab |
| Model | X5 | 900 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1980 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4398 cc | 1985 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 282 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 439 Nm | 164 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82.7 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 2184 kg | 1180 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1710 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2530 mm |
