1984 Saab 99 vs. 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Saab 99. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Saab 99 would be higher. At 1,985 cc (4 cylinders), 1984 Saab 99 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle (89 HP @ 3750 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 1984 Saab 99. (85 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1984 Saab 99. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 102 kg more than 1984 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, 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle (210 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 63 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Saab 99. (147 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Saab 99.
Compare all specifications:
| 1984 Saab 99 | 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Saab | Volkswagen |
| Model | 99 | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1984 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1985 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Torque | 147 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1146 kg | 1248 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4380 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 55 L |
