1979 Saab 900 vs. 1996 Toyota MR2
To start off, 1996 Toyota MR2 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Saab 900. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Saab 900 would be higher. At 1,988 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Toyota MR2 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Saab 900 (100 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 1996 Toyota MR2. (74 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Saab 900 should accelerate faster than 1996 Toyota MR2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Toyota MR2 weights approximately 415 kg more than 1979 Saab 900.
Because 1996 Toyota MR2 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 1996 Toyota MR2. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1979 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, 1979 Saab 900 (162 Nm) has 31 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Toyota MR2. (131 Nm). This means 1979 Saab 900 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Toyota MR2.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Saab 900 | 1996 Toyota MR2 | |
| Make | Saab | Toyota |
| Model | 900 | MR2 |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1983 cc | 1988 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 162 Nm | 131 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1200 kg | 1615 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4750 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 58 L | 75 L |
