1980 Saab 900 vs. 2011 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2011 Volkswagen Passat 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 Volkswagen Passat (139 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 1980 Saab 900. (100 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1980 Saab 900. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 1127 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 Volkswagen Passat (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 157 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Saab 900. (163 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2011 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Saab 900.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Saab 900 | 2011 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Saab | Volkswagen |
| Model | 900 | Passat |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1985 cc | 1968 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 139 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 163 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 90 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1180 kg | 2307 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4750 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2720 mm |
