1996 BMW 332 vs. 1979 Saab 900
To start off, 1996 BMW 332 is newer by 17 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 3,201 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW 332 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW 332 (323 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 223 more horse power than 1979 Saab 900. (100 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW 332 should accelerate faster than 1979 Saab 900. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW 332 weights approximately 360 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 1996 BMW 332 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 1996 BMW 332. 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, 1996 BMW 332 (350 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 188 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Saab 900. (162 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1996 BMW 332 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Saab 900.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW 332 | 1979 Saab 900 | |
| Make | BMW | Saab |
| Model | 332 | 900 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 1983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 323 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 162 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.4 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2530 mm |
