2008 Opel Astra vs. 1988 Saab 900
To start off, 2008 Opel Astra is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Saab 900. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Saab 900 would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Opel Astra (197 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 96 more horse power than 1988 Saab 900. (101 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1988 Saab 900. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Opel Astra weights approximately 205 kg more than 1988 Saab 900. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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 (262 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Saab 900. (162 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Saab 900.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Opel Astra | 1988 Saab 900 | |
| Make | Opel | Saab |
| Model | Astra | 900 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1985 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 101 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 262 Nm | 162 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 78 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1180 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 4750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2530 mm |
