2004 BMW 525 vs. 1971 Saab 99
To start off, 2004 BMW 525 is newer by 33 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 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 BMW 525 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 BMW 525 (174 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 89 more horse power than 1971 Saab 99. (85 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 BMW 525 should accelerate faster than 1971 Saab 99. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 BMW 525 weights approximately 630 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 2004 BMW 525 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 525. 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, 2004 BMW 525 (390 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 243 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Saab 99. (147 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2004 BMW 525 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Saab 99.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 BMW 525 | 1971 Saab 99 | |
| Make | BMW | Saab |
| Model | 525 | 99 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 1853 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 174 HP | 85 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 390 Nm | 147 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1750 kg | 1120 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2480 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 60 L |
