1989 Saab 900 vs. 1974 Seat 131
To start off, 1989 Saab 900 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Seat 131. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Seat 131 would be higher. At 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Saab 900 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Saab 900 (185 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 111 more horse power than 1974 Seat 131. (74 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Saab 900 should accelerate faster than 1974 Seat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Saab 900 weights approximately 315 kg more than 1974 Seat 131. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 Seat 131 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 1974 Seat 131. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 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, 1989 Saab 900 (273 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 148 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Seat 131. (125 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1989 Saab 900 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Seat 131. 1974 Seat 131 has automatic transmission and 1989 Saab 900 has manual transmission. 1989 Saab 900 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1974 Seat 131 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Saab 900 | 1974 Seat 131 | |
| Make | Saab | Seat |
| Model | 900 | 131 |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 1585 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 185 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 273 Nm | 125 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1290 kg | 975 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4950 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2500 mm |
