2005 Lexus GS vs. 1980 Saab 900
To start off, 2005 Lexus GS is newer by 25 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 4,293 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Lexus GS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Lexus GS (275 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 157 more horse power than 1980 Saab 900. (118 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Lexus GS should accelerate faster than 1980 Saab 900. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Lexus GS weights approximately 568 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.
Because 2005 Lexus GS 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 2005 Lexus GS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 Saab 900, 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, 2005 Lexus GS (417 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 250 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Saab 900. (167 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2005 Lexus GS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Saab 900. 2005 Lexus GS 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. 2005 Lexus GS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Lexus GS | 1980 Saab 900 | |
| Make | Lexus | Saab |
| Model | GS | 900 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4293 cc | 1985 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 275 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 417 Nm | 167 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 91.1 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82.5 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1770 kg | 1202 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4830 mm | 4950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2720 mm |
