2008 BMW M3 vs. 1998 Saab 03-Sep
To start off, 2008 BMW M3 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Saab 03-Sep. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Saab 03-Sep would be higher. At 3,246 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW M3 (338 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 209 more horse power than 1998 Saab 03-Sep. (129 HP @ 6100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1998 Saab 03-Sep. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW M3 weights approximately 341 kg more than 1998 Saab 03-Sep. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 BMW M3 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 M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Saab 03-Sep, 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 M3 (365 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 188 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Saab 03-Sep. (177 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2008 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Saab 03-Sep.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW M3 | 1998 Saab 03-Sep | |
| Make | BMW | Saab |
| Model | M3 | 03-Sep |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3246 cc | 1985 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 338 HP | 129 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7900 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 365 Nm | 177 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.1 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 10.1:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1655 kg | 1314 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 68 L |
