1996 Saab 900 vs. 2004 Audi S3
To start off, 2004 Audi S3 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Saab 900. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Saab 900 would be higher. At 1,985 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Saab 900 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Audi S3 (222 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 90 more horse power than 1996 Saab 900. (132 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Audi S3 should accelerate faster than 1996 Saab 900. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Audi S3 weights approximately 108 kg more than 1996 Saab 900. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 Audi S3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Saab 900. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Audi S3 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2004 Audi S3 (280 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 103 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Saab 900. (177 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2004 Audi S3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Saab 900.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Saab 900 | 2004 Audi S3 | |
| Make | Saab | Audi |
| Model | 900 | S3 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1985 cc | 1779 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 132 HP | 222 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 177 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 90 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.1:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1315 kg | 1423 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 4170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2530 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 62 L |
