1973 Subaru R-2 vs. 2003 Saab 05-Sep
To start off, 2003 Saab 05-Sep is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Subaru R-2. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Subaru R-2 would be higher. At 1,983 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Saab 05-Sep is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Saab 05-Sep (148 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 121 more horse power than 1973 Subaru R-2. (27 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Saab 05-Sep should accelerate faster than 1973 Subaru R-2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Saab 05-Sep weights approximately 1028 kg more than 1973 Subaru R-2. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 Subaru R-2 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 1973 Subaru R-2. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Saab 05-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, 2003 Saab 05-Sep (240 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 200 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Subaru R-2. (40 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2003 Saab 05-Sep will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Subaru R-2. 2003 Saab 05-Sep has automatic transmission and 1973 Subaru R-2 has manual transmission. 1973 Subaru R-2 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Saab 05-Sep will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Subaru R-2 | 2003 Saab 05-Sep | |
| Make | Subaru | Saab |
| Model | R-2 | 05-Sep |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 356 cc | 1983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 27 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 40 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 460 kg | 1488 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3000 mm | 4820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1300 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1930 mm | 2710 mm |
