1989 Saab 9000 vs. 2006 Saleen S7
To start off, 2006 Saleen S7 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Saab 9000. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Saab 9000 would be higher. At 7,000 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 Saleen S7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Saleen S7 (750 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 600 more horse power than 1989 Saab 9000. (150 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Saleen S7 should accelerate faster than 1989 Saab 9000. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Saab 9000 weights approximately 203 kg more than 2006 Saleen S7.
Because 2006 Saleen S7 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 2006 Saleen S7. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Saab 9000, 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, 2006 Saleen S7 (949 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 737 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Saab 9000. (212 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2006 Saleen S7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Saab 9000.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Saab 9000 | 2006 Saleen S7 | |
| Make | Saab | Saleen |
| Model | 9000 | S7 |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2290 cc | 7000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 750 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 212 Nm | 949 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Top Speed | 203 km/hour | 399 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1450 kg | 1247 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4755 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1981 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1041 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2692 mm |
