2008 BMW 118 vs. 1989 Saab 9000
To start off, 2008 BMW 118 is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Saab 9000. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Saab 9000 would be higher. At 2,290 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Saab 9000 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Saab 9000 (150 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 2008 BMW 118. (141 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Saab 9000 should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW 118. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Saab 9000 weights approximately 110 kg more than 2008 BMW 118. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 BMW 118 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 2008 BMW 118. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 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, 1989 Saab 9000 (212 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 22 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW 118. (190 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1989 Saab 9000 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW 118.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 118 | 1989 Saab 9000 | |
| Make | BMW | Saab |
| Model | 118 | 9000 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 2290 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 212 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.1 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 12.0:1 | 10.1:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1340 kg | 1450 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2670 mm |
