2005 BMW 318 vs. 1989 Saab 900
To start off, 2005 BMW 318 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Saab 900. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Saab 900 would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 BMW 318 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Saab 900 (185 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 72 more horse power than 2005 BMW 318. (113 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Saab 900 should accelerate faster than 2005 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 BMW 318 weights approximately 265 kg more than 1989 Saab 900.
Because 2005 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 2005 BMW 318. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 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, 2005 BMW 318 (280 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 7 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Saab 900. (273 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2005 BMW 318 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Saab 900.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 BMW 318 | 1989 Saab 900 | |
| Make | BMW | Saab |
| Model | 318 | 900 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 185 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 273 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.1 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1555 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2720 mm |
