2008 BMW X3 vs. 1979 Saab 900
To start off, 2008 BMW X3 is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Saab 900. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Saab 900 would be higher. At 2,993 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW X3 (228 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 85 more horse power than 1979 Saab 900. (143 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 1979 Saab 900. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW X3 weights approximately 515 kg more than 1979 Saab 900. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 BMW X3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1979 Saab 900. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 BMW X3 will offer significantly more control. 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 X3 (480 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 244 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Saab 900. (236 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Saab 900. 2008 BMW X3 has automatic transmission and 1979 Saab 900 has manual transmission. 1979 Saab 900 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 BMW X3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW X3 | 1979 Saab 900 | |
| Make | BMW | Saab |
| Model | X3 | 900 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2993 cc | 1985 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 143 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 480 Nm | 236 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.0:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 210 km/hour | 191 km/hour |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1765 kg | 1250 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1860 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2530 mm |
