2009 Honda Element vs. 1988 Saab 9000
To start off, 2009 Honda Element is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Saab 9000. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Saab 9000 would be higher. At 2,354 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Honda Element is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Saab 9000 (204 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 2009 Honda Element. (166 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 Saab 9000 should accelerate faster than 2009 Honda Element. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Saab 9000 weights approximately 191 kg more than 2009 Honda Element. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Honda Element is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1988 Saab 9000. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Honda Element 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, 1988 Saab 9000 (290 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 72 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Honda Element. (218 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1988 Saab 9000 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Honda Element. 2009 Honda Element has automatic transmission and 1988 Saab 9000 has manual transmission. 1988 Saab 9000 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Honda Element will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Honda Element | 1988 Saab 9000 | |
| Make | Honda | Saab |
| Model | Element | 9000 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2354 cc | 1985 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 166 HP | 204 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 218 Nm | 290 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 90.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 96.9 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 16.3:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1129 kg | 1320 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2670 mm |
