1999 Alfa Romeo 146 vs. 1979 Saab 900
To start off, 1999 Alfa Romeo 146 is newer by 20 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, 1999 Alfa Romeo 146 (148 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 1979 Saab 900. (100 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Alfa Romeo 146 should accelerate faster than 1979 Saab 900. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Alfa Romeo 146 weights approximately 15 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.
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, 1999 Alfa Romeo 146 (187 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Saab 900. (162 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1999 Alfa Romeo 146 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Saab 900.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Alfa Romeo 146 | 1979 Saab 900 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Saab |
| Model | 146 | 900 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 1983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 187 Nm | 162 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Top Speed | 216 km/hour | 164 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1215 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2530 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 58 L |
