1980 Saab 900 vs. 2003 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2003 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 23 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 3,196 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volkswagen Golf (238 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 130 more horse power than 1980 Saab 900. (108 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1980 Saab 900. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 368 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.
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, 2003 Volkswagen Golf (320 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 156 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Saab 900. (164 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2003 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Saab 900.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Saab 900 | 2003 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Saab | Volkswagen |
| Model | 900 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1985 cc | 3196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 238 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 164 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 90 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78 mm | 96 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 | 11.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1180 kg | 1548 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4750 mm | 4180 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2470 mm |
