Sweden vs Sweden — 1978 vs 2005
| 900 Turbo Turbo 16S Convertible | 9-3 SportCombi Aero XWD | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 175 hp | 280 hp |
| Torque | 201 lb-ft | 295 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 1,985 cc | 2,792 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 8.5 sec | 5.9 sec |
| Top Speed | 130 mph | 155 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 16.5 sec | 14.4 sec |
| Weight | — | 3,704 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,520 mm | 2,675 mm |
| Length | 4,700 mm | 4,674 mm |
| Original MSRP | — | $42,700 |
| Value (Excellent) | $30,000 | $18,000 |
| Collectibility | 5/10 | 5/10 |
| Rarity | 4/10 | 6/10 |
Numbers favor the 2005 Saab 9-3 SportCombi Aero XWD with more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1978 Saab 900 Turbo Turbo 16S Convertible offers its unique character, and has its own devoted following. For those who let their heart decide, either car delivers a rewarding ownership experience.
Saab has long offered a diverse lineup, and comparing the 1978 Saab 900 Turbo Turbo 16S Convertible with the 2005 Saab 9-3 SportCombi Aero XWD highlights the breadth of the marque's engineering philosophy. The 2005 Saab 9-3 SportCombi Aero XWD holds a clear advantage in raw power with 280 hp compared to 175 hp, a 105-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Saab 900 Turbo uses a Inline-4 DOHC 16V Turbocharged displacing 1,985 cc, while the Saab 9-3 SportCombi relies on a V6 Turbo DOHC 24V with 2,792 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 2005 Saab 9-3 SportCombi Aero XWD edges ahead at 5.9 seconds versus 8.5 seconds. Each of these machines offers a unique window into the era that produced it, making both worthy of consideration by collectors and drivers alike.