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I drive a stage 4 '95 9000 Aero. SQR software, full 3" exhaust, ETS intercooler, custom intake, dump valve, other extra goodies. Engine just rebuilt as preventive maintenance by Walter Wong in LA. Today I was at a light that is initally two lanes, but then merges into one about 200 ft. past the light. Most people know about the merge and will stay in the left lane, while leaving the right lane for people to turn right.
Well today, I was the first car in the left lane, waiting for the light to turn green. A brand new 2008 BMW 335i pulls up right next to me, obviously with the intent to pass. Driver was about 45 years of age. My car is completely stock on the outside, quiet exhaust (has a race cat and two mufflers), so I'm sure he didn't think much of me sitting next to him, idling calmly.
Well, the light turns green, and we go. Keep in mind, we only have to about 55-65 mph (speeding yes, bad idea in a 35 mph) before we run out of road for the both of us. I accidentally let go of the gas pedal a little bit during 1st gear (had a passenger, she said something), and that was all he needed. Yet somehow, we stayed just about even the entire 200 ft, but I ended up pulling in behind him.
Ok, so here's the breakdown: 2008 BMW 335i with rear wheel drive, 6-speed semi-automatic transmission, 3,946 lb. curb weight, 300hp, 300 ft.lbs torque. All he's gotta do is stomp the gas pedal and he's off, auto trans and rear wheel drive doing the work for him. 1995 9000 Aero, front wheel drive, 5 speed manual transmission (14 years old, BTW), 3250 lb. curb weight, 315 hp, somewhere from 360-390 ft. lbs. torque. The 9000, or any Saab for that matter, is NOT designed for fast off-the-line starts from a stopped position, it's really more of a highway car, where it can stretch its legs.
Well, my point is, it's admirable that a 14 year old Saab with front wheel drive can keep up with a brand new BMW off the line. I'm absolutely positive that on the highway, it'd be a way different outcome. But it also made me realize that there really is a limit in how powerful Saabs were meant to be. But then again I love my car, in every aspect. That BMW can't claim 56.5 cubic feet of storage space, or 34 mpg on the highway, or a spacious backseat, and so on.
Even though the 9000 was well ahead of its time, it may be getting caught up to. I'll still drive one until they're gone, though.
Just some thoughts from a purist, hope everyone's running well.
posted by 24.13.87...
, Fri, 18 Jul 2008 20:01:53
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