The only surprise is that Clinton didn't win by a bigger margin (both in the popular vote and EC) than he did.
Even if they lose republicans tend to turnout more than expected which was why despite the economy being in crisis in 2008. Obama only won by 7.3% when the 1980 crisis caused Carter to lose by 9.5%. Mainly because of their base consisting of groups that are very committed to their beliefs (ie: christian evangelicals, right wing populists, anti-tax suburbanites, etc). Compared to dems who usually has to rely on low turnout groups (working class people/minorities, liberals, young voters, etc).
Here's one huge difference between 1980 and 2008
in 1980 the Incumbent was the loser
while in 2008 the Incumbent not on the ballot
