1998 Opel Astra vs. 1979 Saab 900
To start off, 1998 Opel Astra 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 1,983 cc (4 cylinders), 1979 Saab 900 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Saab 900 (100 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 1998 Opel Astra. (74 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1979 Saab 900 should accelerate faster than 1998 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Saab 900 weights approximately 30 kg more than 1998 Opel Astra. 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, 1998 Opel Astra (167 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Saab 900. (162 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1998 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Saab 900.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Opel Astra | 1979 Saab 900 | |
| Make | Opel | Saab |
| Model | Astra | 900 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1686 cc | 1983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 167 Nm | 162 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.4:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1170 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4060 mm | 4750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2530 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 53 L | 58 L |
