2009 BMW 525 vs. 1989 Saab 9000
To start off, 2009 BMW 525 is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Saab 9000. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Saab 9000 would be higher. At 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 BMW 525 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Saab 9000 (226 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 51 more horse power than 2009 BMW 525. (175 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Saab 9000 should accelerate faster than 2009 BMW 525. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 525 weights approximately 290 kg more than 1989 Saab 9000.
Because 2009 BMW 525 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 525. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 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, 2009 BMW 525 (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 49 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Saab 9000. (351 Nm @ 1900 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 525 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Saab 9000.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW 525 | 1989 Saab 9000 | |
| Make | BMW | Saab |
| Model | 525 | 9000 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 2290 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 226 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 351 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.1 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.1 mm | 90 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1750 kg | 1460 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 66 L |
