1983 Saab 900 vs. 2009 Panoz Esperante
To start off, 2009 Panoz Esperante is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Saab 900. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Saab 900 would be higher. At 4,589 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Panoz Esperante is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Panoz Esperante (305 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 205 more horse power than 1983 Saab 900. (100 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Panoz Esperante should accelerate faster than 1983 Saab 900.
Because 2009 Panoz Esperante 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 2009 Panoz Esperante. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1983 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, 2009 Panoz Esperante (434 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 272 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Saab 900. (162 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Panoz Esperante will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Saab 900.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Saab 900 | 2009 Panoz Esperante | |
| Make | Saab | Panoz |
| Model | 900 | Esperante |
| Year Released | 1983 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1985 cc | 4589 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 305 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 162 Nm | 434 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 90 mm | 90.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 | 9.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4750 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2700 mm |
