1969 Saab Sonett vs. 1997 TVR Chimaera
To start off, 1997 TVR Chimaera is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1969 Saab Sonett. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1969 Saab Sonett would be higher. At 3,946 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 TVR Chimaera is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 TVR Chimaera (225 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 161 more horse power than 1969 Saab Sonett. (64 HP @ 4700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 TVR Chimaera should accelerate faster than 1969 Saab Sonett. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 TVR Chimaera weights approximately 250 kg more than 1969 Saab Sonett. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 TVR Chimaera 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 1997 TVR Chimaera. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1969 Saab Sonett, 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, 1997 TVR Chimaera (373 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 257 more torque (in Nm) than 1969 Saab Sonett. (116 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1997 TVR Chimaera will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1969 Saab Sonett.
Compare all specifications:
| 1969 Saab Sonett | 1997 TVR Chimaera | |
| Make | Saab | TVR |
| Model | Sonett | Chimaera |
| Year Released | 1969 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1498 cc | 3946 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 64 HP | 225 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4700 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 116 Nm | 373 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 90 mm | 94.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 58.9 mm | 71.1 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 775 kg | 1025 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3790 mm | 4030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1450 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1170 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2160 mm | 2290 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 57 L |
