1997 GMC Safari vs. 1980 Saab 900
To start off, 1997 GMC Safari is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Saab 900. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Saab 900 would be higher. At 4,293 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 GMC Safari is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 GMC Safari (187 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 79 more horse power than 1980 Saab 900. (108 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 GMC Safari should accelerate faster than 1980 Saab 900. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 GMC Safari weights approximately 775 kg more than 1980 Saab 900. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 GMC Safari 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 1997 GMC Safari. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 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, 1997 GMC Safari (338 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 174 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Saab 900. (164 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 1997 GMC Safari will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Saab 900.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 GMC Safari | 1980 Saab 900 | |
| Make | GMC | Saab |
| Model | Safari | 900 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Van | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4293 cc | 1985 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 187 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 338 Nm | 164 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 102 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 78 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 8 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1955 kg | 1180 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4830 mm | 4750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1980 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1910 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2530 mm |
