2004 BMW 525 vs. 1980 Saab 900
To start off, 2004 BMW 525 is newer by 24 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 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 BMW 525 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 BMW 525 (174 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 66 more horse power than 1980 Saab 900. (108 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 BMW 525 should accelerate faster than 1980 Saab 900. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 BMW 525 weights approximately 480 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 2004 BMW 525 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 525. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 Saab 900, 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 525 (410 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 246 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Saab 900. (164 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2004 BMW 525 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Saab 900.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 BMW 525 | 1980 Saab 900 | |
| Make | BMW | Saab |
| Model | 525 | 900 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 1985 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 174 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 410 Nm | 164 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.1 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.0:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1660 kg | 1180 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2530 mm |
