2002 BMW Z4 vs. 1979 Saab 900
To start off, 2002 BMW Z4 is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Saab 900. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Saab 900 would be higher. At 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 BMW Z4 (227 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 127 more horse power than 1979 Saab 900. (100 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 1979 Saab 900. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 BMW Z4 weights approximately 186 kg more than 1979 Saab 900. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 BMW Z4 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 2002 BMW Z4. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1979 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, 2002 BMW Z4 (300 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 138 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Saab 900. (162 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2002 BMW Z4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Saab 900. 2002 BMW Z4 has automatic transmission and 1979 Saab 900 has manual transmission. 1979 Saab 900 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 BMW Z4 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 BMW Z4 | 1979 Saab 900 | |
| Make | BMW | Saab |
| Model | Z4 | 900 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2996 cc | 1983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 227 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 162 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 89.6 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Top Speed | 244 km/hour | 164 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1386 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2530 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 58 L |
