1974 Rover 3.5 vs. 2003 Saab 03-Sep
To start off, 2003 Saab 03-Sep is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Rover 3.5. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Rover 3.5 would be higher. At 3,532 cc (8 cylinders), 1974 Rover 3.5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Saab 03-Sep (250 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 101 more horse power than 1974 Rover 3.5. (149 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Saab 03-Sep should accelerate faster than 1974 Rover 3.5. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Saab 03-Sep weights approximately 27 kg more than 1974 Rover 3.5. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 Rover 3.5 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 Rover 3.5. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2003 Saab 03-Sep (370 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 94 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Rover 3.5. (276 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2003 Saab 03-Sep will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Rover 3.5. 1974 Rover 3.5 has automatic transmission and 2003 Saab 03-Sep has manual transmission. 2003 Saab 03-Sep will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1974 Rover 3.5 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Rover 3.5 | 2003 Saab 03-Sep | |
| Make | Rover | Saab |
| Model | 3.5 | 03-Sep |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3532 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 149 HP | 250 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 276 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88.9 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71.1 mm | 86 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1638 kg | 1665 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4750 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1550 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2820 mm | 2610 mm |
