Saab Sonett

vs

Porsche 356B

Sweden vs West Germany — 1966 vs 1960

Saab Sonett (1966)
Porsche 356B (1960)
Specifications
Sonett III V4356B Super 90 Coupe
Horsepower65 hp90 hp
Torque89 lb-ft89 lb-ft
Engine Size1,698 cc1,582 cc
0-60 mph12.5 sec11.5 sec
Top Speed103 mph115 mph
¼ Mile18.5 sec17.8 sec
Weight1,775 lbs2,061 lbs
Wheelbase2,146 mm2,100 mm
Length3,905 mm4,010 mm
Units Produced8,36830,963
Original MSRP$4,295$3,825
Value (Excellent)$40,000$250,000
Collectibility6/108/10
Rarity7/105/10
The Verdict

It's a closely fought contest. The 1966 Saab Sonett III V4 brings lighter weight, greater rarity, better value to the table, and the 1960 Porsche 356B Super 90 Coupe answers with more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. Both are excellent machines that reward their owners in different ways — there's no wrong answer here.

Overview

The rivalry between Sweden and West Germany automotive industries has produced legendary matchups, and the 1966 Saab Sonett III V4 versus 1960 Porsche 356B Super 90 Coupe is among the most fascinating. These two cars represent the best of their national engineering schools. The 1960 Porsche 356B Super 90 Coupe holds a clear advantage in raw power with 90 hp compared to 65 hp, a 25-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Saab Sonett uses a V4 OHV displacing 1,698 cc, while the Porsche 356B relies on a Flat-4 OHV with 1,582 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1960 Porsche 356B Super 90 Coupe edges ahead at 11.5 seconds versus 12.5 seconds. The Saab Sonett carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 286 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 8,368 units built, the 1966 Saab Sonett III V4 is considerably scarcer than the Porsche 356B's 30,963 examples. On the collector market, the 1960 Porsche 356B Super 90 Coupe commands a significant premium over the 1966 Saab Sonett III V4, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1960 Porsche 356B Super 90 Coupe rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.