1981 Saab 900 vs. 2012 Chevrolet Optra
To start off, 2012 Chevrolet Optra is newer by 31 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, 2012 Chevrolet Optra (120 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1981 Saab 900. (100 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Chevrolet Optra should accelerate faster than 1981 Saab 900. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Chevrolet Optra weights approximately 31 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, 2012 Chevrolet Optra (166 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 4 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Saab 900. (162 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2012 Chevrolet Optra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Saab 900.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Saab 900 | 2012 Chevrolet Optra | |
| Make | Saab | Chevrolet |
| Model | 900 | Optra |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1985 cc | 1799 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 162 Nm | 166 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 90 mm | 81.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78 mm | 86 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1180 kg | 1211 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4750 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2610 mm |
