1966 Saab 96 vs. 1977 Triumph TR7
To start off, 1977 Triumph TR7 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 Saab 96. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 Saab 96 would be higher. At 1,996 cc (4 cylinders), 1977 Triumph TR7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1977 Triumph TR7 (104 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1966 Saab 96. (64 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1977 Triumph TR7 should accelerate faster than 1966 Saab 96. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1977 Triumph TR7 weights approximately 172 kg more than 1966 Saab 96. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1977 Triumph TR7 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 1977 Triumph TR7. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1966 Saab 96, 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, 1977 Triumph TR7 (161 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 1966 Saab 96. (116 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1977 Triumph TR7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1966 Saab 96.
Compare all specifications:
| 1966 Saab 96 | 1977 Triumph TR7 | |
| Make | Saab | Triumph |
| Model | 96 | TR7 |
| Year Released | 1966 | 1977 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1498 cc | 1996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 64 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 116 Nm | 161 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 90 mm | 90.3 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 58.9 mm | 78 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 873 kg | 1045 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1270 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2170 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 38 L | 55 L |
