1971 Saab 99 vs. 2012 BMW 116
To start off, 2012 BMW 116 is newer by 41 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 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 BMW 116 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW 116 (116 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 1971 Saab 99. (79 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW 116 should accelerate faster than 1971 Saab 99. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW 116 weights approximately 300 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.
Because 2012 BMW 116 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 116. 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, 2012 BMW 116 (260 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 132 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Saab 99. (128 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 BMW 116 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Saab 99.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Saab 99 | 2012 BMW 116 | |
| Make | Saab | BMW |
| Model | 99 | 116 |
| Year Released | 1971 | 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 | 79 HP | 116 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 128 Nm | 260 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1070 kg | 1370 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4380 mm | 4239 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1748 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1421 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2660 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 51 L |
