2009 BMW 116 vs. 1989 Saab 900
To start off, 2009 BMW 116 is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Saab 900. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Saab 900 would be higher. At 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Saab 900 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Saab 900 (185 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 2009 BMW 116. (120 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Saab 900 should accelerate faster than 2009 BMW 116. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 116 weights approximately 30 kg more than 1989 Saab 900.
Because 2009 BMW 116 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 2009 BMW 116. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 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, 1989 Saab 900 (273 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 113 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 BMW 116. (160 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 1989 Saab 900 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 BMW 116.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW 116 | 1989 Saab 900 | |
| Make | BMW | Saab |
| Model | 116 | 900 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 185 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 273 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.6 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 12.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 204 km/hour | 211 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1320 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2720 mm |
