2006 Alpina Roadster vs. 1980 Saab 900
To start off, 2006 Alpina Roadster is newer by 26 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 3,346 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Alpina Roadster is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Alpina Roadster (296 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 188 more horse power than 1980 Saab 900. (108 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Alpina Roadster should accelerate faster than 1980 Saab 900. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Alpina Roadster weights approximately 215 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 2006 Alpina Roadster 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 2006 Alpina Roadster. 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, 2006 Alpina Roadster (362 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 198 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Saab 900. (164 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2006 Alpina Roadster will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Saab 900.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Alpina Roadster | 1980 Saab 900 | |
| Make | Alpina | Saab |
| Model | Roadster | 900 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3346 cc | 1985 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 296 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 362 Nm | 164 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93.8 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1395 kg | 1180 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2530 mm |
