1989 Saab 900 vs. 1983 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1989 Saab 900 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Volkswagen Passat 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 126 more horse power than 1983 Volkswagen Passat. (59 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Saab 900 should accelerate faster than 1983 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Saab 900 weights approximately 350 kg more than 1983 Volkswagen Passat. 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, 1989 Saab 900 (273 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 173 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Volkswagen Passat. (100 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1989 Saab 900 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Saab 900 | 1983 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Saab | Volkswagen |
| Model | 900 | Passat |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1983 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 1295 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 185 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 273 Nm | 100 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 90 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78 mm | 73.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1290 kg | 940 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4950 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2560 mm |
