2009 BMW 550 vs. 1971 Saab 99
To start off, 2009 BMW 550 is newer by 38 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 4,799 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 BMW 550 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 550 (360 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 275 more horse power than 1971 Saab 99. (85 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 550 should accelerate faster than 1971 Saab 99. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 550 weights approximately 610 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 2009 BMW 550 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 550. 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, 2009 BMW 550 (489 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 342 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Saab 99. (147 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 550 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Saab 99.
Compare all specifications:
2009 BMW 550 | 1971 Saab 99 | |
Make | BMW | Saab |
Model | 550 | 99 |
Year Released | 2009 | 1971 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4799 cc | 1853 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 360 HP | 85 HP |
Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 489 Nm | 147 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 87 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 88.3 mm | 78 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1730 kg | 1120 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4430 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1470 mm | 1700 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1850 mm | 1450 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2480 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 60 L |