2003 BMW X3 vs. 1980 Saab 900
To start off, 2003 BMW X3 is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Saab 900. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Saab 900 would be higher. At 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW X3 (189 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 89 more horse power than 1980 Saab 900. (100 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 1980 Saab 900. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW X3 weights approximately 635 kg more than 1980 Saab 900. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 BMW X3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1980 Saab 900. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 BMW X3 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2003 BMW X3 (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 82 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Saab 900. (163 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2003 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Saab 900.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 BMW X3 | 1980 Saab 900 | |
| Make | BMW | Saab |
| Model | X3 | 900 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1980 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 1985 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 163 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 78 mm |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1815 kg | 1180 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2530 mm |
