2006 Audi A3 vs. 1979 Saab 900
To start off, 2006 Audi A3 is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Saab 900. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Saab 900 would be higher. At 1,985 cc (4 cylinders), 1979 Saab 900 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Saab 900 (143 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 2006 Audi A3. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1979 Saab 900 should accelerate faster than 2006 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Audi A3 weights approximately 130 kg more than 1979 Saab 900.
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, 2006 Audi A3 (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 84 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Saab 900. (236 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Saab 900.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Audi A3 | 1979 Saab 900 | |
| Make | Audi | Saab |
| Model | A3 | 900 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1968 cc | 1985 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 143 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 236 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 207 km/hour | 191 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1250 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2530 mm |
