1976 Holden Statesman vs. 1986 Saab 9000
To start off, 1986 Saab 9000 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Holden Statesman. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Holden Statesman would be higher. At 5,042 cc (8 cylinders), 1976 Holden Statesman is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1976 Holden Statesman (213 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 78 more horse power than 1986 Saab 9000. (135 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1976 Holden Statesman should accelerate faster than 1986 Saab 9000. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Holden Statesman weights approximately 261 kg more than 1986 Saab 9000. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1976 Holden Statesman 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 1976 Holden Statesman. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 Saab 9000, 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, 1976 Holden Statesman (400 Nm @ 3100 RPM) has 228 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Saab 9000. (172 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1976 Holden Statesman will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Saab 9000.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Holden Statesman | 1986 Saab 9000 | |
| Make | Holden | Saab |
| Model | Statesman | 9000 |
| Year Released | 1976 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5042 cc | 1985 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 213 HP | 135 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 172 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3100 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1545 kg | 1284 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5190 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2670 mm |
