Sweden vs Sweden — 1978 vs 1985
| 900 Turbo Classic 900 Turbo SPG | 9000 Aero | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 185 hp | 225 hp |
| Torque | 201 lb-ft | 258 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 1,985 cc | 2,290 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 7.4 sec | 6.5 sec |
| Top Speed | 137 mph | 152 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 15.6 sec | 14.7 sec |
| Weight | 2,822 lbs | 3,131 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,520 mm | 2,672 mm |
| Length | 4,730 mm | 4,620 mm |
| Original MSRP | $26,000 | $39,950 |
| Value (Excellent) | $30,000 | $15,000 |
| Collectibility | 6/10 | 6/10 |
| Rarity | 5/10 | 5/10 |
Numbers favor the 1985 Saab 9000 Aero with more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1978 Saab 900 Turbo Classic 900 Turbo SPG offers lighter weight, 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 Classic 900 Turbo SPG with the 1985 Saab 9000 Aero highlights the breadth of the marque's engineering philosophy. The 1985 Saab 9000 Aero holds a clear advantage in raw power with 225 hp compared to 185 hp, a 40-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Saab 900 Turbo uses a Inline-4 DOHC 16V Turbo B202 displacing 1,985 cc, while the Saab 9000 relies on a Inline-4 Turbo DOHC 16V with 2,290 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1985 Saab 9000 Aero edges ahead at 6.5 seconds versus 7.4 seconds. The Saab 900 Turbo carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 309 lbs lighter. Each of these machines offers a unique window into the era that produced it, making both worthy of consideration by collectors and drivers alike.