1981 Saab 900 vs. 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Saab 900. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Saab 900 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 @ 5200 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit. (64 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1981 Saab 900 should accelerate faster than 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Saab 900 weights approximately 335 kg more than 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit. 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, 1981 Saab 900 (162 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 46 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit. (116 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1981 Saab 900 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Saab 900 | 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
| Make | Saab | Volkswagen |
| Model | 900 | Rabbit |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1982 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1985 cc | 1715 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 64 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 162 Nm | 116 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1180 kg | 845 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4750 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2410 mm |
