1982 Saab 900 vs. 1997 Volkswagen W12
To start off, 1997 Volkswagen W12 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Saab 900. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Saab 900 would be higher. At 5,600 cc (12 cylinders), 1997 Volkswagen W12 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volkswagen W12 (420 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 320 more horse power than 1982 Saab 900. (100 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen W12 should accelerate faster than 1982 Saab 900. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Volkswagen W12 weights approximately 20 kg more than 1982 Saab 900. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 Volkswagen W12 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1997 Volkswagen W12. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1982 Saab 900, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 1997 Volkswagen W12 (719 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 557 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Saab 900. (162 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1997 Volkswagen W12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Saab 900.
Compare all specifications:
1982 Saab 900 | 1997 Volkswagen W12 | |
Make | Saab | Volkswagen |
Model | 900 | W12 |
Year Released | 1982 | 1997 |
Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Middle |
Engine Size | 1985 cc | 5600 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | W |
Horse Power | 100 HP | 420 HP |
Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 162 Nm | 719 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 90 mm | 81 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 78 mm | 90.3 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1180 kg | 1200 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4750 mm | 4410 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1930 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1110 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2550 mm |