2009 BMW 523 vs. 2002 Saab 03-Sep
To start off, 2009 BMW 523 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Saab 03-Sep. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Saab 03-Sep would be higher. At 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 BMW 523 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 523 (175 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 2002 Saab 03-Sep. (120 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 523 should accelerate faster than 2002 Saab 03-Sep. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Saab 03-Sep weights approximately 5 kg more than 2009 BMW 523.
Because 2009 BMW 523 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 523. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Saab 03-Sep, 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, 2002 Saab 03-Sep (280 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 BMW 523. (230 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2002 Saab 03-Sep will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 BMW 523.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW 523 | 2002 Saab 03-Sep | |
| Make | BMW | Saab |
| Model | 523 | 03-Sep |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 2169 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 18.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1525 kg | 1530 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1470 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1850 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.5 L/100km | 11.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 61 L |
