1979 Mazda 929 vs. 1987 Saab 900
To start off, 1987 Saab 900 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Mazda 929. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Mazda 929 would be higher. At 1,985 cc (4 cylinders), 1987 Saab 900 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1987 Saab 900 (100 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 1979 Mazda 929. (83 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1987 Saab 900 should accelerate faster than 1979 Mazda 929. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 Saab 900 weights approximately 60 kg more than 1979 Mazda 929. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 Mazda 929 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 1979 Mazda 929. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1987 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, 1987 Saab 900 (162 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mazda 929. (134 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1987 Saab 900 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mazda 929.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Mazda 929 | 1987 Saab 900 | |
| Make | Mazda | Saab |
| Model | 929 | 900 |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1987 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1769 cc | 1985 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 83 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 134 Nm | 162 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.6:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1120 kg | 1180 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2530 mm |
