1979 Saab 900 vs. 2004 Saturn L
To start off, 2004 Saturn L is newer by 25 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 2,196 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Saturn L is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Saab 900 (143 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 2004 Saturn L. (135 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Saab 900 should accelerate faster than 2004 Saturn L. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Saturn L weights approximately 70 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 37 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Saturn L. (199 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1979 Saab 900 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Saturn L.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Saab 900 | 2004 Saturn L | |
| Make | Saab | Saturn |
| Model | 900 | L |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1985 cc | 2196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 143 HP | 135 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 236 Nm | 199 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 1320 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4750 mm | 4840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2630 mm |
