1990 Saab 900 vs. 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Saab 900. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Saab 900 would be higher. At 2,324 cc (5 cylinders), 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle (168 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 68 more horse power than 1990 Saab 900. (100 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1990 Saab 900. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 90 kg more than 1990 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, 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle (225 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 63 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Saab 900. (162 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Saab 900.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 Saab 900 | 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Saab | Volkswagen |
| Model | 900 | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1990 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1985 cc | 2324 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 162 Nm | 225 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1180 kg | 1270 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4750 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2520 mm |
