2003 Saab 03-Sep vs. 1981 Vauxhall Chevette
To start off, 2003 Saab 03-Sep is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Vauxhall Chevette. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Vauxhall Chevette would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Saab 03-Sep is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Saab 03-Sep (250 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 194 more horse power than 1981 Vauxhall Chevette. (56 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Saab 03-Sep should accelerate faster than 1981 Vauxhall Chevette. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Saab 03-Sep weights approximately 810 kg more than 1981 Vauxhall Chevette. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 Vauxhall Chevette 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 1981 Vauxhall Chevette. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Saab 03-Sep, 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, 2003 Saab 03-Sep (370 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 281 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Vauxhall Chevette. (89 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2003 Saab 03-Sep will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Vauxhall Chevette.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Saab 03-Sep | 1981 Vauxhall Chevette | |
| Make | Saab | Vauxhall |
| Model | 03-Sep | Chevette |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1256 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 250 HP | 56 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 370 Nm | 89 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 61 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 8.7:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1665 kg | 855 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2400 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 45 L |
