1984 Saab 90 vs. 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Saab 90. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Saab 90 would be higher. At 1,985 cc (4 cylinders), 1984 Saab 90 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle (149 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 1984 Saab 90. (100 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1984 Saab 90. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 75 kg more than 1984 Saab 90. 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, 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle (240 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 78 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Saab 90. (162 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Saab 90.
Compare all specifications:
| 1984 Saab 90 | 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Saab | Volkswagen |
| Model | 90 | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1984 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1985 cc | 1786 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 149 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 162 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 90 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1110 kg | 1185 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 3010 mm |
