1970 Saab 99 vs. 1981 Volvo 260
To start off, 1981 Volvo 260 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Saab 99. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Saab 99 would be higher. At 2,849 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Volvo 260 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Volvo 260 (153 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 1970 Saab 99. (86 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Volvo 260 should accelerate faster than 1970 Saab 99. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Volvo 260 weights approximately 300 kg more than 1970 Saab 99. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 Volvo 260 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 1981 Volvo 260. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1970 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, 1981 Volvo 260 (231 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 101 more torque (in Nm) than 1970 Saab 99. (130 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1981 Volvo 260 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1970 Saab 99.
Compare all specifications:
| 1970 Saab 99 | 1981 Volvo 260 | |
| Make | Saab | Volvo |
| Model | 99 | 260 |
| Year Released | 1970 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1709 cc | 2849 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 86 HP | 153 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 130 Nm | 231 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1070 kg | 1370 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4380 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2660 mm |
