1970 Saab Sonett III vs. 1996 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1996 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Saab Sonett III. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Saab Sonett III would be higher. At 1,781 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Volkswagen Passat (74 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1970 Saab Sonett III. (64 HP @ 4700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1970 Saab Sonett III. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 410 kg more than 1970 Saab Sonett III. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1996 Volkswagen Passat (140 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 1970 Saab Sonett III. (115 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1996 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1970 Saab Sonett III.
Compare all specifications:
| 1970 Saab Sonett III | 1996 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Saab | Volkswagen |
| Model | Sonett III | Passat |
| Year Released | 1970 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1498 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 64 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4700 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 115 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 90 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 58.9 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 800 kg | 1210 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1620 mm |
