2001 Hyundai Elantra vs. 1981 Saab 900
To start off, 2001 Hyundai Elantra is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Saab 900. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Saab 900 would be higher. At 1,985 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Saab 900 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Hyundai Elantra (104 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 1981 Saab 900. (100 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Hyundai Elantra should accelerate faster than 1981 Saab 900. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Hyundai Elantra weights approximately 19 kg more than 1981 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, 1981 Saab 900 (162 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 18 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Hyundai Elantra. (144 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1981 Saab 900 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Hyundai Elantra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Hyundai Elantra | 1981 Saab 900 | |
| Make | Hyundai | Saab |
| Model | Elantra | 900 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1599 cc | 1985 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 144 Nm | 162 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.5 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 87 mm | 78 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1199 kg | 1180 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2530 mm |
