2008 Opel Astra vs. 1979 Saab 900
To start off, 2008 Opel Astra 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 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 43 more horse power than 2008 Opel Astra. (100 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1979 Saab 900 should accelerate faster than 2008 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Opel Astra weights approximately 143 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, 2008 Opel Astra (240 Nm @ 2300 RPM) has 4 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Saab 900. (236 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Saab 900.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Opel Astra | 1979 Saab 900 | |
| Make | Opel | Saab |
| Model | Astra | 900 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1686 cc | 1985 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 143 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 236 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2300 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.4:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 180 km/hour | 191 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1393 kg | 1250 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2530 mm |
