1980 Saab 900 vs. 2012 Lexus GS
To start off, 2012 Lexus GS is newer by 32 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), 2012 Lexus GS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Lexus GS (303 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 203 more horse power than 1980 Saab 900. (100 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Lexus GS should accelerate faster than 1980 Saab 900. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Lexus GS weights approximately 541 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 2012 Lexus GS 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 2012 Lexus GS. 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, 2012 Lexus GS (371 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 208 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Saab 900. (163 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2012 Lexus GS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Saab 900.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Saab 900 | 2012 Lexus GS | |
| Make | Saab | Lexus |
| Model | 900 | GS |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2012 |
| 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 | 100 HP | 303 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 163 Nm | 371 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1180 kg | 1721 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4750 mm | 4826 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1821 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1425 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2850 mm |
