2008 BMW M3 vs. 2003 Saab 03-Sep
To start off, 2008 BMW M3 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Saab 03-Sep. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Saab 03-Sep would be higher. At 3,246 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW M3 (339 HP @ 4900 RPM) has 191 more horse power than 2003 Saab 03-Sep. (148 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2003 Saab 03-Sep. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Saab 03-Sep weights approximately 85 kg more than 2008 BMW M3.
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, 2003 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 2003 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 2003 Saab 03-Sep.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW M3 | 2003 Saab 03-Sep | |
| Make | BMW | Saab |
| Model | M3 | 03-Sep |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3246 cc | 1983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 339 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4900 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 365 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
| 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 | 1570 kg | 1655 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 61 L |
