1987 Saab 900 vs. 1996 TVR Chimaera
To start off, 1996 TVR Chimaera is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Saab 900. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Saab 900 would be higher. At 3,946 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 TVR Chimaera is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 TVR Chimaera (225 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 1987 Saab 900. (175 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 TVR Chimaera should accelerate faster than 1987 Saab 900. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 Saab 900 weights approximately 260 kg more than 1996 TVR Chimaera.
Because 1996 TVR Chimaera 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 1996 TVR Chimaera. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1987 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, 1996 TVR Chimaera (373 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Saab 900. (273 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1996 TVR Chimaera will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Saab 900.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Saab 900 | 1996 TVR Chimaera | |
| Make | Saab | TVR |
| Model | 900 | Chimaera |
| Year Released | 1987 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1985 cc | 3946 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 225 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 273 Nm | 373 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 90 mm | 94.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78 mm | 71.1 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1285 kg | 1025 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4950 mm | 4030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1220 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2290 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 57 L |
