2004 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1980 Saab 900
To start off, 2004 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Saab 900. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Saab 900 would be higher. At 2,198 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Chevrolet Malibu (146 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1980 Saab 900. (118 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1980 Saab 900. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 233 kg more than 1980 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, 2004 Chevrolet Malibu (203 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 36 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Saab 900. (167 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2004 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Saab 900. 2004 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 1980 Saab 900 has manual transmission. 1980 Saab 900 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Chevrolet Malibu will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Chevrolet Malibu | 1980 Saab 900 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Saab |
| Model | Malibu | 900 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2198 cc | 1985 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 146 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 203 Nm | 167 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94.6 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1435 kg | 1202 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2720 mm |
