2003 Saab 05-Sep vs. 2011 BMW M3
To start off, 2011 BMW M3 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Saab 05-Sep. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Saab 05-Sep would be higher. At 3,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2011 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 BMW M3 (414 HP @ 8300 RPM) has 266 more horse power than 2003 Saab 05-Sep. (148 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2003 Saab 05-Sep. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 BMW M3 weights approximately 170 kg more than 2003 Saab 05-Sep. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 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 2011 BMW M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2011 BMW M3 (400 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 160 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Saab 05-Sep. (240 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2011 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Saab 05-Sep.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Saab 05-Sep | 2011 BMW M3 | |
| Make | Saab | BMW |
| Model | 05-Sep | M3 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 3999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 414 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 8300 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1485 kg | 1655 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4615 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1803 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1424 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2761 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 75 L | 63 L |
