1979 Saab 900 vs. 2008 Alfa Romeo 156
To start off, 2008 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 29 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 1,983 cc (4 cylinders), 1979 Saab 900 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Alfa Romeo 156 (148 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 1979 Saab 900. (100 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1979 Saab 900. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 85 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, 2008 Alfa Romeo 156 (182 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Saab 900. (162 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Saab 900.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Saab 900 | 2008 Alfa Romeo 156 | |
| Make | Saab | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | 900 | 156 |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1983 cc | 1970 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 162 Nm | 182 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 90 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78 mm | 91 mm |
| Top Speed | 164 km/hour | 214 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1200 kg | 1285 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4750 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2600 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 58 L | 63 L |
