1957 Austin-Healey 100 vs. 1981 Saab 900
To start off, 1981 Saab 900 is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1957 Austin-Healey 100. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1957 Austin-Healey 100 would be higher. At 2,639 cc (6 cylinders), 1957 Austin-Healey 100 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1957 Austin-Healey 100 (101 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 1981 Saab 900. (100 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1957 Austin-Healey 100 should accelerate faster than 1981 Saab 900. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Saab 900 weights approximately 60 kg more than 1957 Austin-Healey 100.
Because 1957 Austin-Healey 100 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 1957 Austin-Healey 100. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 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, 1981 Saab 900 (162 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 19 more torque (in Nm) than 1957 Austin-Healey 100. (143 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1981 Saab 900 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1957 Austin-Healey 100.
Compare all specifications:
1957 Austin-Healey 100 | 1981 Saab 900 | |
Make | Austin-Healey | Saab |
Model | 100 | 900 |
Year Released | 1957 | 1981 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2639 cc | 1985 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 101 HP | 100 HP |
Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Torque | 143 Nm | 162 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 79.4 mm | 90 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 88.9 mm | 78 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1120 kg | 1180 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4010 mm | 4750 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1700 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1430 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2530 mm |