1983 Opel Rekord vs. 2003 Saab 03-Sep
To start off, 2003 Saab 03-Sep is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Opel Rekord. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Opel Rekord would be higher. At 2,197 cc (4 cylinders), 1983 Opel Rekord is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Saab 03-Sep (148 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 1983 Opel Rekord. (114 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Saab 03-Sep should accelerate faster than 1983 Opel Rekord. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Saab 03-Sep weights approximately 190 kg more than 1983 Opel Rekord. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1983 Opel Rekord 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 1983 Opel Rekord. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Saab 03-Sep, 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, 2003 Saab 03-Sep (240 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 54 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Opel Rekord. (186 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2003 Saab 03-Sep will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Opel Rekord.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Opel Rekord | 2003 Saab 03-Sep | |
| Make | Opel | Saab |
| Model | Rekord | 03-Sep |
| Year Released | 1983 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2197 cc | 1983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 186 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 1440 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2680 mm |
