1978 Opel Rekord vs. 2004 Saab 03-Sep
To start off, 2004 Saab 03-Sep is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Opel Rekord. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Opel Rekord would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Saab 03-Sep is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Saab 03-Sep (207 HP) has 107 more horse power than 1978 Opel Rekord. (100 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Saab 03-Sep should accelerate faster than 1978 Opel Rekord. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Saab 03-Sep weights approximately 425 kg more than 1978 Opel Rekord. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Opel Rekord 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 1978 Opel Rekord. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Saab 03-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, 2004 Saab 03-Sep (300 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 152 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Opel Rekord. (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2004 Saab 03-Sep will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Opel Rekord.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Opel Rekord | 2004 Saab 03-Sep | |
| Make | Opel | Saab |
| Model | Rekord | 03-Sep |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1978 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 207 HP |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 95 mm | 86.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 69.8 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1120 kg | 1545 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 58 L |
