2008 BMW X3 vs. 1987 Saab 900
To start off, 2008 BMW X3 is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Saab 900. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Saab 900 would be higher. At 2,979 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW X3 (228 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 1987 Saab 900. (175 HP @ 5300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 1987 Saab 900. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW X3 weights approximately 480 kg more than 1987 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 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 X3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1987 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, 2008 BMW X3 (300 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Saab 900. (273 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Saab 900. 2008 BMW X3 has automatic transmission and 1987 Saab 900 has manual transmission. 1987 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 | 1987 Saab 900 | |
| Make | BMW | Saab |
| Model | X3 | 900 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1987 |
| Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2979 cc | 1985 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 273 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 89.6 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 210 km/hour | 203 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1765 kg | 1285 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4580 mm | 4950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 63 L |
