2009 BMW 135 vs. 1974 Saab 99
To start off, 2009 BMW 135 is newer by 35 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 2,979 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 BMW 135 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 135 (302 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 208 more horse power than 1974 Saab 99. (94 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 135 should accelerate faster than 1974 Saab 99. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 135 weights approximately 380 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.
Because 2009 BMW 135 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 2009 BMW 135. 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, 2009 BMW 135 (401 Nm @ 1300 RPM) has 239 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Saab 99. (162 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 135 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Saab 99.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW 135 | 1974 Saab 99 | |
| Make | BMW | Saab |
| Model | 135 | 99 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2979 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 302 HP | 94 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 401 Nm | 162 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1300 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1525 kg | 1145 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1410 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2480 mm |
