1997 Honda NSX vs. 1972 Saab 99
To start off, 1997 Honda NSX is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Saab 99. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Saab 99 would be higher. At 3,179 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Honda NSX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Honda NSX (290 HP @ 7100 RPM) has 182 more horse power than 1972 Saab 99. (108 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Honda NSX should accelerate faster than 1972 Saab 99. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Honda NSX weights approximately 220 kg more than 1972 Saab 99. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 Honda NSX 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 1997 Honda NSX. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1972 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, 1997 Honda NSX (311 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 144 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Saab 99. (167 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 1997 Honda NSX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Saab 99.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Honda NSX | 1972 Saab 99 | |
| Make | Honda | Saab |
| Model | NSX | 99 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 3179 cc | 1985 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 290 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7100 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 311 Nm | 167 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 3700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1370 kg | 1150 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1170 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2540 mm | 2480 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 62 L |
