1980 Saab 900 vs. 2013 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2013 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 33 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 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2013 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Volkswagen Golf (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1980 Saab 900. (108 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1980 Saab 900. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 214 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, 2013 Volkswagen Golf (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 156 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Saab 900. (164 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2013 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Saab 900.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Saab 900 | 2013 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Saab | Volkswagen |
| Model | 900 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1985 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 164 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 90 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78 mm | 95 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 | 16.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1180 kg | 1394 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4750 mm | 4201 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2578 mm |
