2002 BMW Z4 vs. 1988 Saab 9000

To start off, 2002 BMW Z4 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Saab 9000. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Saab 9000 would be higher. At 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 BMW Z4 (190 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1988 Saab 9000. (175 HP @ 5300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 1988 Saab 9000. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 BMW Z4 weights approximately 62 kg more than 1988 Saab 9000. 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, 1988 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, 1988 Saab 9000 (278 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 33 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 BMW Z4. (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1988 Saab 9000 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 BMW Z4.

Compare all specifications:

2002 BMW Z4 1988 Saab 9000
Make BMW Saab
Model Z4 9000
Year Released 2002 1988
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2494 cc 1985 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 190 HP 175 HP
Engine RPM 6000 RPM 5300 RPM
Torque 245 Nm 278 Nm
Torque RPM 3500 RPM 3000 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 10.5:1 9.0:1
Top Speed 235 km/hour 211 km/hour
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 2 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1395 kg 1333 kg
Vehicle Length 4100 mm 4780 mm
Vehicle Width 1790 mm 1770 mm
Vehicle Height 1310 mm 1430 mm
Wheelbase Size 2580 mm 2670 mm