1997 Saab 900 vs. 1979 Subaru Rex
To start off, 1997 Saab 900 is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Subaru Rex. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Subaru Rex would be higher. At 1,985 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Saab 900 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Saab 900 (131 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 102 more horse power than 1979 Subaru Rex. (29 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Saab 900 should accelerate faster than 1979 Subaru Rex. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Saab 900 weights approximately 780 kg more than 1979 Subaru Rex. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 Subaru Rex 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 1979 Subaru Rex. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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 Saab 900 (178 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 136 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Subaru Rex. (42 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1997 Saab 900 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Subaru Rex.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Saab 900 | 1979 Subaru Rex | |
| Make | Saab | Subaru |
| Model | 900 | Rex |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1985 cc | 543 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 131 HP | 29 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 178 Nm | 42 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1315 kg | 535 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 3000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1300 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 1930 mm |
