2004 BMW 318 vs. 1987 Saab 9000
To start off, 2004 BMW 318 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Saab 9000. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Saab 9000 would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 BMW 318 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 BMW 318 (141 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 1987 Saab 9000. (135 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 BMW 318 should accelerate faster than 1987 Saab 9000. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 BMW 318 weights approximately 275 kg more than 1987 Saab 9000. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 BMW 318 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 2004 BMW 318. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1987 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, 2004 BMW 318 (200 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Saab 9000. (172 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2004 BMW 318 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Saab 9000.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 BMW 318 | 1987 Saab 9000 | |
| Make | BMW | Saab |
| Model | 318 | 9000 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1987 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1985 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 135 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 172 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.1:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 206 km/hour | 192 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1580 kg | 1305 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 54 L |
