1996 BMW 520 vs. 1974 Saab 99
To start off, 1996 BMW 520 is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Saab 99. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Saab 99 would be higher. At 1,990 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW 520 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW 520 (150 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 1974 Saab 99. (94 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW 520 should accelerate faster than 1974 Saab 99. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW 520 weights approximately 351 kg more than 1974 Saab 99. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 BMW 520 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 1996 BMW 520. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1974 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, 1996 BMW 520 (190 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Saab 99. (162 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1996 BMW 520 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Saab 99.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW 520 | 1974 Saab 99 | |
| Make | BMW | Saab |
| Model | 520 | 99 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1990 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 94 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 162 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66 mm | 78 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1496 kg | 1145 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2480 mm |
