2009 BMW 320 vs. 1988 Saab 9000
To start off, 2009 BMW 320 is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Saab 9000. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Saab 9000 would be higher. At 2,171 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 BMW 320 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Saab 9000 (204 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 2009 BMW 320. (168 HP @ 6100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 Saab 9000 should accelerate faster than 2009 BMW 320. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 320 weights approximately 156 kg more than 1988 Saab 9000.
Because 2009 BMW 320 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 320. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Saab 9000, 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, 1988 Saab 9000 (290 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 BMW 320. (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1988 Saab 9000 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 BMW 320.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW 320 | 1988 Saab 9000 | |
| Make | BMW | Saab |
| Model | 320 | 9000 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2171 cc | 1985 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 204 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 290 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 90.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1476 kg | 1320 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2670 mm |
