2001 Saab 03-Sep vs. 1970 Volkswagen 1600
To start off, 2001 Saab 03-Sep is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Volkswagen 1600. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Volkswagen 1600 would be higher. At 1,985 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Saab 03-Sep is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Saab 03-Sep (203 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 154 more horse power than 1970 Volkswagen 1600. (49 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Saab 03-Sep should accelerate faster than 1970 Volkswagen 1600. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Saab 03-Sep weights approximately 525 kg more than 1970 Volkswagen 1600. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1970 Volkswagen 1600 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 1970 Volkswagen 1600. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Saab 03-Sep, 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 Saab 03-Sep (280 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 174 more torque (in Nm) than 1970 Volkswagen 1600. (106 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2001 Saab 03-Sep will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1970 Volkswagen 1600.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Saab 03-Sep | 1970 Volkswagen 1600 | |
| Make | Saab | Volkswagen |
| Model | 03-Sep | 1600 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1970 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1985 cc | 1584 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Horse Power | 203 HP | 49 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 106 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 7.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1395 kg | 870 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 75 L | 40 L |
