1998 Chrysler Viper vs. 1971 Saab 99
To start off, 1998 Chrysler Viper is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Saab 99. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Saab 99 would be higher. At 7,986 cc (10 cylinders), 1998 Chrysler Viper is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Chrysler Viper (389 HP @ 5150 RPM) has 310 more horse power than 1971 Saab 99. (79 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Chrysler Viper should accelerate faster than 1971 Saab 99. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Chrysler Viper weights approximately 520 kg more than 1971 Saab 99. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 Chrysler Viper 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 Chrysler Viper. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1971 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 Chrysler Viper (621 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 493 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Saab 99. (128 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1998 Chrysler Viper will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Saab 99.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Chrysler Viper | 1971 Saab 99 | |
| Make | Chrysler | Saab |
| Model | Viper | 99 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 7986 cc | 1709 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 10 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 389 HP | 79 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5150 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 621 Nm | 128 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1590 kg | 1070 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1930 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1130 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2530 mm |
