2008 Jaguar XK8 vs. 1980 Saab 900
To start off, 2008 Jaguar XK8 is newer by 28 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 4,196 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Jaguar XK8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Jaguar XK8 (300 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 192 more horse power than 1980 Saab 900. (108 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Jaguar XK8 should accelerate faster than 1980 Saab 900. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Jaguar XK8 weights approximately 415 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 2008 Jaguar XK8 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 2008 Jaguar XK8. 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, 2008 Jaguar XK8 (420 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 256 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Saab 900. (164 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2008 Jaguar XK8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Saab 900.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Jaguar XK8 | 1980 Saab 900 | |
| Make | Jaguar | Saab |
| Model | XK8 | 900 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4196 cc | 1985 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 300 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 420 Nm | 164 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4100 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.3 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1595 kg | 1180 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1330 mm | 1700 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2530 mm |
