1979 Saab 900 vs. 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 26 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. Both 1979 Saab 900 and 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle are equipped with a 1,983 cc engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle (114 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 1979 Saab 900. (100 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1979 Saab 900. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 198 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, 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle (170 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 8 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Saab 900. (162 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Saab 900.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Saab 900 | 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Saab | Volkswagen |
| Model | 900 | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1983 cc | 1983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 162 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3200 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 |
| Top Speed | 164 km/hour | 185 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1200 kg | 1398 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4750 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 58 L | 55 L |
