2003 BMW M3 vs. 2008 Saab 05-Sep
To start off, 2008 Saab 05-Sep is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 BMW M3 would be higher. At 3,168 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW M3 (342 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 168 more horse power than 2008 Saab 05-Sep. (174 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2008 Saab 05-Sep. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Saab 05-Sep weights approximately 285 kg more than 2003 BMW M3.
Because 2003 BMW M3 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 M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Saab 05-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, both vehicles can yield 350 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 BMW M3 | 2008 Saab 05-Sep | |
| Make | BMW | Saab |
| Model | M3 | 05-Sep |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3168 cc | 2956 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 342 HP | 174 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7900 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 18.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 259 km/hour | 215 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 4.9 seconds | 9.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1670 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.4 L/100km | 7.3 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 75 L |
