1995 BMW S3 vs. 1966 Saab 96
To start off, 1995 BMW S3 is newer by 29 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 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 1995 BMW S3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1995 BMW S3 (338 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 275 more horse power than 1966 Saab 96. (63 HP @ 4700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1995 BMW S3 should accelerate faster than 1966 Saab 96. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1995 BMW S3 weights approximately 795 kg more than 1966 Saab 96. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1995 BMW S3 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 1995 BMW S3. 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, 1995 BMW S3 (260 Nm) has 145 more torque (in Nm) than 1966 Saab 96. (115 Nm). This means 1995 BMW S3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1966 Saab 96.
Compare all specifications:
| 1995 BMW S3 | 1966 Saab 96 | |
| Make | BMW | Saab |
| Model | S3 | 96 |
| Year Released | 1995 | 1966 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 1498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 338 HP | 63 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Torque | 260 Nm | 115 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1725 kg | 930 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4310 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1600 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2510 mm |
