Sweden vs Italy — 1978 vs 1976
| 900 Turbo Turbo 16S Convertible | 400 Automatic | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 175 hp | 310 hp |
| Torque | 201 lb-ft | 300 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 1,985 cc | 4,823 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 8.5 sec | 7.1 sec |
| Top Speed | 130 mph | 155 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 16.5 sec | 15.2 sec |
| Weight | — | 3,880 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,520 mm | 2,700 mm |
| Length | 4,700 mm | 4,810 mm |
| Units Produced | — | 2,962 |
| Original MSRP | — | $60,000 |
| Value (Excellent) | $30,000 | $180,000 |
| Collectibility | 5/10 | 6/10 |
| Rarity | 4/10 | 5/10 |
The 1976 Ferrari 400 Automatic emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1978 Saab 900 Turbo Turbo 16S Convertible counters with better value, but the numbers favor its rival. Still, both are remarkable machines, and the final choice often comes down to which driving experience speaks to you.
When Sweden engineering meets Italy craftsmanship, the result is one of the most compelling matchups in the classic car world. The 1978 Saab 900 Turbo Turbo 16S Convertible and 1976 Ferrari 400 Automatic embody their respective national automotive traditions while competing in the same arena. The 1976 Ferrari 400 Automatic holds a clear advantage in raw power with 310 hp compared to 175 hp, a 135-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Saab 900 Turbo uses a Inline-4 DOHC 16V Turbocharged displacing 1,985 cc, while the Ferrari 400 relies on a V12 DOHC with 4,823 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1976 Ferrari 400 Automatic edges ahead at 7.1 seconds versus 8.5 seconds. On the collector market, the 1976 Ferrari 400 Automatic commands a significant premium over the 1978 Saab 900 Turbo Turbo 16S Convertible, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.