1988 Saab 900 vs. 1991 Volvo 850
To start off, 1991 Volvo 850 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Saab 900. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Saab 900 would be higher. At 2,434 cc (5 cylinders), 1991 Volvo 850 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Volvo 850 (168 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 1988 Saab 900. (101 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1991 Volvo 850 should accelerate faster than 1988 Saab 900. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Volvo 850 weights approximately 190 kg more than 1988 Saab 900. 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, 1991 Volvo 850 (230 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 68 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Saab 900. (162 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1991 Volvo 850 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Saab 900.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Saab 900 | 1991 Volvo 850 | |
| Make | Saab | Volvo |
| Model | 900 | 850 |
| Year Released | 1988 | 1991 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1985 cc | 2434 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 162 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 90 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78 mm | 90 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1180 kg | 1370 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4750 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2670 mm |
