1981 Saab 900 vs. 2009 Suzuki SX4
To start off, 2009 Suzuki SX4 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 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Suzuki SX4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Suzuki SX4 (144 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 1981 Saab 900. (100 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Suzuki SX4 should accelerate faster than 1981 Saab 900. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Suzuki SX4 weights approximately 115 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, 2009 Suzuki SX4 (184 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 22 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Saab 900. (162 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Suzuki SX4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Saab 900.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Saab 900 | 2009 Suzuki SX4 | |
| Make | Saab | Suzuki |
| Model | 900 | SX4 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1985 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 144 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 162 Nm | 184 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 90 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1180 kg | 1295 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4750 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1550 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2510 mm |
