1970 Saab 99 vs. 2012 BMW 520
To start off, 2012 BMW 520 is newer by 42 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 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 BMW 520 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW 520 (182 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 96 more horse power than 1970 Saab 99. (86 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW 520 should accelerate faster than 1970 Saab 99.
Because 2012 BMW 520 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 2012 BMW 520. 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, 2012 BMW 520 (380 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 250 more torque (in Nm) than 1970 Saab 99. (130 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 BMW 520 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1970 Saab 99.
Compare all specifications:
| 1970 Saab 99 | 2012 BMW 520 | |
| Make | Saab | BMW |
| Model | 99 | 520 |
| Year Released | 1970 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1709 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 86 HP | 182 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 130 Nm | 380 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4380 mm | 4907 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1462 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2968 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 70 L |
