1998 BMW 318 vs. 1972 Saab 99
To start off, 1998 BMW 318 is newer by 26 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 1,985 cc (4 cylinders), 1972 Saab 99 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 BMW 318 (116 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 1972 Saab 99. (108 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW 318 should accelerate faster than 1972 Saab 99. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 318 weights approximately 245 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 1998 BMW 318 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 1998 BMW 318. 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, 1998 BMW 318 (180 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 13 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Saab 99. (167 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 1998 BMW 318 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Saab 99.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 318 | 1972 Saab 99 | |
| Make | BMW | Saab |
| Model | 318 | 99 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1895 cc | 1985 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 116 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 167 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 3700 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 8.7:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1395 kg | 1150 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2480 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 62 L |
