2008 BMW M3 vs. 2001 Saab 03-Sep
To start off, 2008 BMW M3 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Saab 03-Sep. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 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 190 more horse power than 2001 Saab 03-Sep. (148 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2001 Saab 03-Sep. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW M3 weights approximately 315 kg more than 2001 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, 2001 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 125 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Saab 03-Sep. (240 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2008 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Saab 03-Sep. 2001 Saab 03-Sep has automatic transmission and 2008 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 2008 BMW M3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Saab 03-Sep will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW M3 | 2001 Saab 03-Sep | |
| Make | BMW | Saab |
| Model | M3 | 03-Sep |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3246 cc | 1983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 338 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7900 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 365 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.1 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 9.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1655 kg | 1340 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2610 mm |
