2001 Panoz Esperante vs. 1970 Saab 99
To start off, 2001 Panoz Esperante is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Saab 99. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Saab 99 would be higher. At 4,601 cc (8 cylinders), 2001 Panoz Esperante is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Panoz Esperante (317 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 231 more horse power than 1970 Saab 99. (86 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Panoz Esperante should accelerate faster than 1970 Saab 99. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Panoz Esperante weights approximately 200 kg more than 1970 Saab 99. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 Panoz Esperante 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 2001 Panoz Esperante. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1970 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, 2001 Panoz Esperante (426 Nm @ 4750 RPM) has 296 more torque (in Nm) than 1970 Saab 99. (130 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2001 Panoz Esperante will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1970 Saab 99.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Panoz Esperante | 1970 Saab 99 | |
| Make | Panoz | Saab |
| Model | Esperante | 99 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1970 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4601 cc | 1709 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 317 HP | 86 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 426 Nm | 130 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4750 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1270 kg | 1070 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2480 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 54 L |
