1971 Saab 99 vs. 1983 Toyota Starlet
To start off, 1983 Toyota Starlet is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Saab 99. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Saab 99 would be higher. At 1,709 cc (4 cylinders), 1971 Saab 99 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Saab 99 (79 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 1983 Toyota Starlet. (47 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 Saab 99 should accelerate faster than 1983 Toyota Starlet. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Saab 99 weights approximately 320 kg more than 1983 Toyota Starlet. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1983 Toyota Starlet 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 1983 Toyota Starlet. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1971 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, 1971 Saab 99 (128 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 63 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Toyota Starlet. (65 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1971 Saab 99 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Toyota Starlet.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Saab 99 | 1983 Toyota Starlet | |
| Make | Saab | Toyota |
| Model | 99 | Starlet |
| Year Released | 1971 | 1983 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1709 cc | 993 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 79 HP | 47 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 128 Nm | 65 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1070 kg | 750 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4380 mm | 3690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1530 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2310 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 40 L |
