1959 Abarth 1600 vs. 1974 Saab 99
To start off, 1974 Saab 99 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Abarth 1600. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Abarth 1600 would be higher. At 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 1974 Saab 99 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Saab 99 (94 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 1959 Abarth 1600. (89 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1974 Saab 99 should accelerate faster than 1959 Abarth 1600. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Saab 99 weights approximately 185 kg more than 1959 Abarth 1600. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1959 Abarth 1600 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 1959 Abarth 1600. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1974 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 Abarth 1600 | 1974 Saab 99 | |
| Make | Abarth | Saab |
| Model | 1600 | 99 |
| Year Released | 1959 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 94 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 960 kg | 1145 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4040 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1530 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2480 mm |
