1980 Saab 900 vs. 2001 Volkswagen Microbus
To start off, 2001 Volkswagen Microbus is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Saab 900. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Saab 900 would be higher. At 2,553 cc (5 cylinders), 2001 Volkswagen Microbus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Volkswagen Microbus (134 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 1980 Saab 900. (118 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Volkswagen Microbus should accelerate faster than 1980 Saab 900. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Volkswagen Microbus weights approximately 458 kg more than 1980 Saab 900. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 Volkswagen Microbus is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2001 Volkswagen Microbus. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 Saab 900, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2001 Volkswagen Microbus (201 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 34 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Saab 900. (167 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2001 Volkswagen Microbus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Saab 900.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Saab 900 | 2001 Volkswagen Microbus | |
| Make | Saab | Volkswagen |
| Model | 900 | Microbus |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1985 cc | 2553 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 167 Nm | 201 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1202 kg | 1660 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4950 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1960 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2470 mm |
