2005 Alfa Romeo 159 vs. 1974 Saab 99
To start off, 2005 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Saab 99. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Saab 99 would be higher. At 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 1974 Saab 99 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Alfa Romeo 159 (118 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 1974 Saab 99. (94 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Alfa Romeo 159 should accelerate faster than 1974 Saab 99. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Alfa Romeo 159 weights approximately 350 kg more than 1974 Saab 99. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2005 Alfa Romeo 159 (289 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 127 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Saab 99. (162 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2005 Alfa Romeo 159 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Saab 99.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Alfa Romeo 159 | 1974 Saab 99 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Saab |
| Model | 159 | 99 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1910 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 94 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 289 Nm | 162 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.4 mm | 78 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1495 kg | 1145 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2480 mm |
