1979 Saab 900 vs. 1971 Saab 99
To start off, 1979 Saab 900 is newer by 8 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 1,983 cc (4 cylinders), 1979 Saab 900 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Saab 900 (100 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1971 Saab 99. (85 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Saab 900 should accelerate faster than 1971 Saab 99. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Saab 900 weights approximately 80 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, 1979 Saab 900 (162 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Saab 99. (147 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1979 Saab 900 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Saab 99.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Saab 900 | 1971 Saab 99 | |
| Make | Saab | Saab |
| Model | 900 | 99 |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1983 cc | 1853 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 85 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 162 Nm | 147 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 90 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78 mm | 78 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1200 kg | 1120 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4750 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2480 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 58 L | 60 L |
