2001 BMW 318 vs. 1989 Saab 9000
To start off, 2001 BMW 318 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Saab 9000. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Saab 9000 would be higher. At 2,290 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Saab 9000 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Saab 9000 (226 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 110 more horse power than 2001 BMW 318. (116 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Saab 9000 should accelerate faster than 2001 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Saab 9000 weights approximately 20 kg more than 2001 BMW 318. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 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 2001 BMW 318. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Saab 9000, 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, 1989 Saab 9000 (351 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 171 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 BMW 318. (180 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1989 Saab 9000 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 BMW 318.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 BMW 318 | 1989 Saab 9000 | |
| Make | BMW | Saab |
| Model | 318 | 9000 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1895 cc | 2290 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 116 HP | 226 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 351 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.5 mm | 90 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1440 kg | 1460 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 66 L |
