1980 Saab 900 vs. 2011 Honda Civic
To start off, 2011 Honda Civic is newer by 31 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, 2011 Honda Civic (138 HP) has 20 more horse power than 1980 Saab 900. (118 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Honda Civic should accelerate faster than 1980 Saab 900. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Honda Civic weights approximately 118 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, 2011 Honda Civic (174 Nm) has 7 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Saab 900. (167 Nm). This means 2011 Honda Civic will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Saab 900. 2011 Honda Civic has automatic transmission and 1980 Saab 900 has manual transmission. 1980 Saab 900 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Honda Civic will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Saab 900 | 2011 Honda Civic | |
| Make | Saab | Honda |
| Model | 900 | Civic |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1985 cc | 1799 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 138 HP |
| Torque | 167 Nm | 174 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 90 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78 mm | 87.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 167 km/hour | 204 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1202 kg | 1320 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4950 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1785 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1460 mm |
