2003 BMW 520 vs. 2004 Saab 03-Sep
To start off, 2004 Saab 03-Sep is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 BMW 520 would be higher. At 2,171 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 BMW 520 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Saab 03-Sep (207 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 2003 BMW 520. (167 HP @ 6100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Saab 03-Sep should accelerate faster than 2003 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW 520 weights approximately 10 kg more than 2004 Saab 03-Sep.
Because 2003 BMW 520 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 2003 BMW 520. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Saab 03-Sep, 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, 2004 Saab 03-Sep (300 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 BMW 520. (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2004 Saab 03-Sep will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 BMW 520. 2003 BMW 520 has automatic transmission and 2004 Saab 03-Sep has manual transmission. 2004 Saab 03-Sep will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 BMW 520 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 BMW 520 | 2004 Saab 03-Sep | |
| Make | BMW | Saab |
| Model | 520 | 03-Sep |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2171 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 167 HP | 207 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 86.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.7:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1700 kg | 1690 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.7 L/100km | 9.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 61 L |
