1971 Saab 99 vs. 2008 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 37 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 1,853 cc (4 cylinders), 1971 Saab 99 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Golf (113 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1971 Saab 99. (85 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1971 Saab 99. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 65 kg more than 1971 Saab 99. 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, 2008 Volkswagen Golf (156 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 9 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Saab 99. (147 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Saab 99.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Saab 99 | 2008 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Saab | Volkswagen |
| Model | 99 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1853 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 147 Nm | 156 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78 mm | 86.9 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1120 kg | 1185 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2590 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 55 L |
