2008 BMW 523 vs. 1989 Saab 900
To start off, 2008 BMW 523 is newer by 19 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 2,496 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW 523 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Saab 900 (185 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 2008 BMW 523. (175 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Saab 900 should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW 523. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 523 weights approximately 210 kg more than 1989 Saab 900.
Because 2008 BMW 523 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 523. 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, 1989 Saab 900 (273 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 43 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW 523. (230 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1989 Saab 900 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW 523. 2008 BMW 523 has automatic transmission and 1989 Saab 900 has manual transmission. 1989 Saab 900 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 BMW 523 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 523 | 1989 Saab 900 | |
| Make | BMW | Saab |
| Model | 523 | 900 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2496 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 185 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 273 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 230 km/hour | 211 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1500 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1470 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1850 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2720 mm |
