1980 BMW 725 vs. 1966 Saab 96
To start off, 1980 BMW 725 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 Saab 96. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 Saab 96 would be higher. At 2,495 cc (6 cylinders), 1980 BMW 725 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 BMW 725 (148 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 85 more horse power than 1966 Saab 96. (63 HP @ 4700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1980 BMW 725 should accelerate faster than 1966 Saab 96.
Because 1980 BMW 725 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 1980 BMW 725. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1966 Saab 96, 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, 1980 BMW 725 (215 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 1966 Saab 96. (115 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1980 BMW 725 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1966 Saab 96.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 BMW 725 | 1966 Saab 96 | |
| Make | BMW | Saab |
| Model | 725 | 96 |
| Year Released | 1980 | 1966 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2495 cc | 1498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 63 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Torque | 215 Nm | 115 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71.6 mm | 58.9 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.6:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4310 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1600 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2510 mm |
