1979 Saab 900 vs. 2003 Volvo V50
To start off, 2003 Volvo V50 is newer by 24 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 2,521 cc (5 cylinders), 2003 Volvo V50 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Saab 900 (143 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 2003 Volvo V50. (134 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Saab 900 should accelerate faster than 2003 Volvo V50. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volvo V50 weights approximately 188 kg more than 1979 Saab 900.
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, 1979 Saab 900 (236 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Volvo V50. (220 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1979 Saab 900 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Volvo V50. 2003 Volvo V50 has automatic transmission and 1979 Saab 900 has manual transmission. 1979 Saab 900 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Volvo V50 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Saab 900 | 2003 Volvo V50 | |
| Make | Saab | Volvo |
| Model | 900 | V50 |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1985 cc | 2521 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 143 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 236 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.5:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Top Speed | 191 km/hour | 200 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 1438 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4750 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2760 mm |
