1954 Austin-Healey 100 vs. 1975 Saab 99
To start off, 1975 Saab 99 is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1954 Austin-Healey 100. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1954 Austin-Healey 100 would be higher. At 2,660 cc (4 cylinders), 1954 Austin-Healey 100 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1975 Saab 99 (100 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1954 Austin-Healey 100. (90 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1975 Saab 99 should accelerate faster than 1954 Austin-Healey 100. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1975 Saab 99 weights approximately 235 kg more than 1954 Austin-Healey 100. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1954 Austin-Healey 100 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1954 Austin-Healey 100. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1975 Saab 99, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 1975 Saab 99 (162 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 18 more torque (in Nm) than 1954 Austin-Healey 100. (144 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1975 Saab 99 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1954 Austin-Healey 100.
Compare all specifications:
| 1954 Austin-Healey 100 | 1975 Saab 99 | |
| Make | Austin-Healey | Saab |
| Model | 100 | 99 |
| Year Released | 1954 | 1975 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2660 cc | 1985 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 144 Nm | 162 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.3 mm | 90.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 111.1 mm | 78 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 945 kg | 1180 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3860 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2290 mm | 2480 mm |
