1987 Saab 900 vs. 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 12 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 1,985 cc (4 cylinders), 1987 Saab 900 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1987 Saab 900 (175 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle. (148 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1987 Saab 900 should accelerate faster than 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 Saab 900 weights approximately 120 kg more than 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle. 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, 1987 Saab 900 (273 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 33 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle. (240 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1987 Saab 900 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Saab 900 | 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Saab | Volkswagen |
| Model | 900 | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1987 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Convertible | 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 | 175 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 273 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 90 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 203 km/hour | 202 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1285 kg | 1165 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4950 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 55 L |
