1998 Ford Focus vs. 1979 Saab 900
To start off, 1998 Ford Focus is newer by 19 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 1,985 cc (4 cylinders), 1979 Saab 900 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Saab 900 (143 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 1998 Ford Focus. (134 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1979 Saab 900 should accelerate faster than 1998 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Saab 900 weights approximately 6 kg more than 1998 Ford Focus. 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, 1979 Saab 900 (236 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 66 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Focus. (170 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1979 Saab 900 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Focus.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Ford Focus | 1979 Saab 900 | |
| Make | Ford | Saab |
| Model | Focus | 900 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1797 cc | 1985 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 143 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 236 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 19.4:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 184 km/hour | 191 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1244 kg | 1250 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2530 mm |
