2004 BMW 118 vs. 1970 Saab Sonett II

To start off, 2004 BMW 118 is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Saab Sonett II. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Saab Sonett II would be higher. At 1,971 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 BMW 118 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 BMW 118 (120 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 1970 Saab Sonett II. (64 HP @ 4700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 BMW 118 should accelerate faster than 1970 Saab Sonett II. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 BMW 118 weights approximately 610 kg more than 1970 Saab Sonett II. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2004 BMW 118 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 2004 BMW 118. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1970 Saab Sonett II, 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, 2004 BMW 118 (280 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 165 more torque (in Nm) than 1970 Saab Sonett II. (115 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2004 BMW 118 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1970 Saab Sonett II.

Compare all specifications:

2004 BMW 118 1970 Saab Sonett II
Make BMW Saab
Model 118 Sonett II
Year Released 2004 1970
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1971 cc 1498 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 120 HP 64 HP
Engine RPM 4000 RPM 4700 RPM
Torque 280 Nm 115 Nm
Torque RPM 2000 RPM 2500 RPM
Engine Bore Size 84 mm 90 mm
Engine Stroke Size 90 mm 58.9 mm
Fuel Type Diesel Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Number of Seats 5 seats 2 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1385 kg 775 kg
Vehicle Length 4230 mm 3790 mm
Vehicle Width 1760 mm 1450 mm
Vehicle Height 1440 mm 1170 mm
Wheelbase Size 2730 mm 2160 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 50 L 60 L