Sweden vs Germany — 1978 vs 1981
| 99 Turbo | 930 Turbo Flachbau Slantnose | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 145 hp | 330 hp |
| Torque | 173 lb-ft | 318 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 1,985 cc | 3,299 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 8.3 sec | 4.6 sec |
| Top Speed | 124 mph | 168 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 16.3 sec | 12.8 sec |
| Weight | — | 2,943 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,470 mm | 2,272 mm |
| Length | 4,384 mm | 4,291 mm |
| Units Produced | 10,607 | 948 |
| Original MSRP | — | $85,000 |
| Value (Excellent) | $35,000 | $650,000 |
| Collectibility | 5/10 | 9/10 |
| Rarity | 7/10 | 8/10 |
The 1981 Porsche 930 Turbo Flachbau Slantnose emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1978 Saab 99 Turbo 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 Germany craftsmanship, the result is one of the most compelling matchups in the classic car world. The 1978 Saab 99 Turbo and 1981 Porsche 930 Turbo Flachbau Slantnose embody their respective national automotive traditions while competing in the same arena. The 1981 Porsche 930 Turbo Flachbau Slantnose holds a clear advantage in raw power with 330 hp compared to 145 hp, a 185-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Saab 99 uses a Inline-4 SOHC 8V Turbocharged displacing 1,985 cc, while the Porsche 930 Turbo relies on a Flat-6 SOHC Turbocharged 12V with 3,299 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1981 Porsche 930 Turbo Flachbau Slantnose edges ahead at 4.6 seconds versus 8.3 seconds. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 948 units built, the 1981 Porsche 930 Turbo Flachbau Slantnose is considerably scarcer than the Saab 99's 10,607 examples. On the collector market, the 1981 Porsche 930 Turbo Flachbau Slantnose commands a significant premium over the 1978 Saab 99 Turbo, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1981 Porsche 930 Turbo Flachbau Slantnose rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.