1974 Fiat 124 vs. 1999 Saab 03-Sep
To start off, 1999 Saab 03-Sep is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Fiat 124. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Fiat 124 would be higher. At 2,171 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Saab 03-Sep is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Saab 03-Sep (123 HP) has 64 more horse power than 1974 Fiat 124. (59 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Saab 03-Sep should accelerate faster than 1974 Fiat 124. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Saab 03-Sep weights approximately 620 kg more than 1974 Fiat 124. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 Fiat 124 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 1974 Fiat 124. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Saab 03-Sep, 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, 1999 Saab 03-Sep (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 193 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Fiat 124. (87 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1999 Saab 03-Sep will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Fiat 124.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Fiat 124 | 1999 Saab 03-Sep | |
| Make | Fiat | Saab |
| Model | 124 | 03-Sep |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1197 cc | 2171 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 123 HP |
| Torque | 87 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 73 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71.5 mm | 98 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 19.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 140 km/hour | 247 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 910 kg | 1530 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4050 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 38 L | 68 L |
