2009 BMW M3 vs. 1998 Saab 03-Sep
To start off, 2009 BMW M3 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Saab 03-Sep. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Saab 03-Sep would be higher. At 3,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW M3 (414 HP @ 8300 RPM) has 285 more horse power than 1998 Saab 03-Sep. (129 HP @ 6100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1998 Saab 03-Sep. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW M3 weights approximately 6 kg more than 1998 Saab 03-Sep. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 BMW M3 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 M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 2009 BMW M3 (400 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 223 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Saab 03-Sep. (177 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2009 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Saab 03-Sep.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW M3 | 1998 Saab 03-Sep | |
| Make | BMW | Saab |
| Model | M3 | 03-Sep |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3999 cc | 1985 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 414 HP | 129 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8300 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 177 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 12.0:1 | 10.1:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1320 kg | 1314 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4620 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1400 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1810 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 68 L |
