1979 Saab 900 vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1997 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 18 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 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volkswagen Golf (115 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1979 Saab 900. (100 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1979 Saab 900. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 90 kg more than 1979 Saab 900. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1997 Volkswagen Golf (166 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 4 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Saab 900. (162 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1997 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Saab 900.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Saab 900 | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Saab | Volkswagen |
| Model | 900 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1983 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 162 Nm | 166 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 90 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1200 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4750 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 58 L | 55 L |
