1997 Honda NSX vs. 1979 Saab 900
To start off, 1997 Honda NSX is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Saab 900. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Saab 900 would be higher. At 2,977 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Honda NSX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Honda NSX (280 HP @ 7300 RPM) has 180 more horse power than 1979 Saab 900. (100 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Honda NSX should accelerate faster than 1979 Saab 900. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Honda NSX weights approximately 170 kg more than 1979 Saab 900. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 Honda NSX 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 Honda NSX. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1979 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 Honda NSX (294 Nm @ 5400 RPM) has 132 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Saab 900. (162 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1997 Honda NSX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Saab 900.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Honda NSX | 1979 Saab 900 | |
| Make | Honda | Saab |
| Model | NSX | 900 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2977 cc | 1983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 280 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7300 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 294 Nm | 162 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5400 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 90 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1370 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1180 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2540 mm | 2530 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 58 L |
