2004 Ford Ka vs. 1981 Saab 900
To start off, 2004 Ford Ka is newer by 23 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, 1981 Saab 900 (100 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 2004 Ford Ka. (94 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Saab 900 should accelerate faster than 2004 Ford Ka. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Saab 900 weights approximately 44 kg more than 2004 Ford Ka. 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 27 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Ford Ka. (135 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 1981 Saab 900 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Ford Ka.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Ford Ka | 1981 Saab 900 | |
| Make | Ford | Saab |
| Model | Ka | 900 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1597 cc | 1985 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 94 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 135 Nm | 162 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.2 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.5 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1136 kg | 1180 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3660 mm | 4750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2530 mm |
