1980 Saab 900 vs. 2012 Lexus IS
To start off, 2012 Lexus IS 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 5,000 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Lexus IS (416 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 298 more horse power than 1980 Saab 900. (118 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 1980 Saab 900. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Lexus IS weights approximately 513 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 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 2012 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, 2012 Lexus IS (502 Nm @ 5200 RPM) has 335 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Saab 900. (167 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2012 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Saab 900. 2012 Lexus IS 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. 2012 Lexus IS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Saab 900 | 2012 Lexus IS | |
| Make | Saab | Lexus |
| Model | 900 | IS |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1985 cc | 5000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 416 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 167 Nm | 502 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1202 kg | 1715 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4950 mm | 4661 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1816 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1415 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2731 mm |
