2008 BMW 320 vs. 1988 Saab 9000
To start off, 2008 BMW 320 is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Saab 9000. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Saab 9000 would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 BMW 320 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Saab 9000 (175 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 2008 BMW 320. (161 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 Saab 9000 should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW 320. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 320 weights approximately 157 kg more than 1988 Saab 9000.
Because 2008 BMW 320 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 320. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 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, 2008 BMW 320 (330 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 52 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Saab 9000. (278 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 320 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Saab 9000.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 320 | 1988 Saab 9000 | |
| Make | BMW | Saab |
| Model | 320 | 9000 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1985 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 161 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 278 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 221 km/hour | 211 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1333 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2670 mm |
