1980 Saab 900 vs. 2007 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2007 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 27 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 1,985 cc (4 cylinders), 1980 Saab 900 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Volkswagen Golf (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1980 Saab 900. (118 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1980 Saab 900. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 38 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, 2007 Volkswagen Golf (200 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 33 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Saab 900. (167 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2007 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 | 2007 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Saab | Volkswagen |
| Model | 900 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1985 cc | 1983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 167 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 90 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 | 11.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 167 km/hour | 206 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1202 kg | 1240 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4950 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2590 mm |
