1983 BMW 525 vs. 1971 Saab 99
To start off, 1983 BMW 525 is newer by 12 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 2,693 cc (6 cylinders), 1983 BMW 525 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1983 BMW 525 (123 HP @ 4250 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 1971 Saab 99. (79 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1983 BMW 525 should accelerate faster than 1971 Saab 99. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1983 BMW 525 weights approximately 180 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 1983 BMW 525 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 1983 BMW 525. 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, 1983 BMW 525 (241 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 113 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Saab 99. (128 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1983 BMW 525 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Saab 99.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 BMW 525 | 1971 Saab 99 | |
| Make | BMW | Saab |
| Model | 525 | 99 |
| Year Released | 1983 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2693 cc | 1709 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 79 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4250 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 241 Nm | 128 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 1070 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2530 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 54 L |
