1981 Saab 900 vs. 2009 Subaru Legacy
To start off, 2009 Subaru Legacy is newer by 28 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 1,992 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Subaru Legacy is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Subaru Legacy (163 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 63 more horse power than 1981 Saab 900. (100 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Subaru Legacy should accelerate faster than 1981 Saab 900. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Subaru Legacy weights approximately 453 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.
Because 2009 Subaru Legacy is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1981 Saab 900. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Subaru Legacy will offer significantly more control. 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, 2009 Subaru Legacy (187 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Saab 900. (162 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Subaru Legacy will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Saab 900.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Saab 900 | 2009 Subaru Legacy | |
| Make | Saab | Subaru |
| Model | 900 | Legacy |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1985 cc | 1992 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 163 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Torque | 162 Nm | 187 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 90 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1180 kg | 1633 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2660 mm |
