2006 Panoz Esperante vs. 1974 Saab 99
To start off, 2006 Panoz Esperante is newer by 32 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 4,589 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 Panoz Esperante is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Panoz Esperante (305 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 211 more horse power than 1974 Saab 99. (94 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Panoz Esperante should accelerate faster than 1974 Saab 99.
Because 2006 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 2006 Panoz Esperante. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1974 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, 2006 Panoz Esperante (434 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 272 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Saab 99. (162 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2006 Panoz Esperante will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Saab 99.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Panoz Esperante | 1974 Saab 99 | |
| Make | Panoz | Saab |
| Model | Esperante | 99 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4589 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 305 HP | 94 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 434 Nm | 162 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 90.2 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 78 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2480 mm |
