1980 Saab 900 vs. 2011 Lexus IS
To start off, 2011 Lexus IS 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 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Lexus IS (306 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 198 more horse power than 1980 Saab 900. (108 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 1980 Saab 900. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Lexus IS weights approximately 420 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 2011 Lexus IS 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 2011 Lexus IS. 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, 2011 Lexus IS (375 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 211 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Saab 900. (164 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2011 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Saab 900.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Saab 900 | 2011 Lexus IS | |
| Make | Saab | Lexus |
| Model | 900 | IS |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1985 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 306 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 164 Nm | 375 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1180 kg | 1600 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4750 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1801 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1425 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2728 mm |
