2008 Audi R8 vs. 1979 Saab 900
To start off, 2008 Audi R8 is newer by 29 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 4,163 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Audi R8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Audi R8 (420 HP @ 8250 RPM) has 277 more horse power than 1979 Saab 900. (143 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Audi R8 should accelerate faster than 1979 Saab 900. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Saab 900 weights approximately 90 kg more than 2008 Audi R8.
Because 2008 Audi R8 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1979 Saab 900. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Audi R8 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2008 Audi R8 (430 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 194 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Saab 900. (236 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Audi R8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Saab 900.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi R8 | 1979 Saab 900 | |
| Make | Audi | Saab |
| Model | R8 | 900 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 4163 cc | 1985 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 420 HP | 143 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8250 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 430 Nm | 236 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | AWD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1160 kg | 1250 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1260 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2530 mm |
