2000 BMW Z3 vs. 1980 Saab 900
To start off, 2000 BMW Z3 is newer by 20 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 2,171 cc (6 cylinders), 2000 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 BMW Z3 (167 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 1980 Saab 900. (108 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2000 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 1980 Saab 900. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 BMW Z3 weights approximately 206 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 2000 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 2000 BMW Z3. 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, 2000 BMW Z3 (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 46 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Saab 900. (164 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2000 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Saab 900.
Compare all specifications:
| 2000 BMW Z3 | 1980 Saab 900 | |
| Make | BMW | Saab |
| Model | Z3 | 900 |
| Year Released | 2000 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2171 cc | 1985 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 167 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 164 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1386 kg | 1180 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4060 mm | 4750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2530 mm |
