1981 Saab 900 vs. 2006 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2006 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 25 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, 2006 Volkswagen Jetta (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 1981 Saab 900. (100 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 1981 Saab 900. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 138 kg more than 1981 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, 2006 Volkswagen Jetta (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 158 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Saab 900. (162 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2006 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Saab 900.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Saab 900 | 2006 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Saab | Volkswagen |
| Model | 900 | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1985 cc | 1968 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 162 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 90 mm | 81.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 | 18.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1180 kg | 1318 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4750 mm | 4560 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2580 mm |
