2009 BMW 120 vs. 1979 Saab 900
To start off, 2009 BMW 120 is newer by 30 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 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 BMW 120 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 120 (175 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 75 more horse power than 1979 Saab 900. (100 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 120 should accelerate faster than 1979 Saab 900. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 120 weights approximately 240 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 2009 BMW 120 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 120. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1979 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, 2009 BMW 120 (351 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 189 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Saab 900. (162 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 120 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Saab 900.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW 120 | 1979 Saab 900 | |
| Make | BMW | Saab |
| Model | 120 | 900 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 351 Nm | 162 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 78 mm |
| Top Speed | 228 km/hour | 164 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1440 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2530 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 58 L |
