1981 Saab 900 vs. 1973 Volkswagen 1600
To start off, 1981 Saab 900 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Volkswagen 1600. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Volkswagen 1600 would be higher. At 1,985 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Saab 900 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Saab 900 (100 HP) has 47 more horse power than 1973 Volkswagen 1600. (53 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1981 Saab 900 should accelerate faster than 1973 Volkswagen 1600. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Saab 900 weights approximately 145 kg more than 1973 Volkswagen 1600. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 Volkswagen 1600 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 1973 Volkswagen 1600. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 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, 1981 Saab 900 (162 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 52 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Volkswagen 1600. (110 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 1981 Saab 900 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Volkswagen 1600.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Saab 900 | 1973 Volkswagen 1600 | |
| Make | Saab | Volkswagen |
| Model | 900 | 1600 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1985 cc | 1584 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 53 HP |
| Torque | 162 Nm | 110 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 90 mm | 85.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78 mm | 69 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1180 kg | 1035 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4750 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2340 mm |
