Sweden vs Germany — 1966 vs 1973
| Sonett V4 (Sonett II) | 914 2.0 | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 65 hp | 100 hp |
| Torque | 87 lb-ft | 116 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 1,498 cc | 1,971 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 12.5 sec | 9.8 sec |
| Top Speed | 100 mph | 115 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 18.5 sec | 17.2 sec |
| Weight | 1,720 lbs | 2,138 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,150 mm | 2,450 mm |
| Length | 3,860 mm | 3,985 mm |
| Units Produced | 1,868 | 95,000 |
| Original MSRP | $3,250 | $5,299 |
| Value (Excellent) | $50,000 | $35,000 |
| Collectibility | 7/10 | 7/10 |
| Rarity | 7/10 | 5/10 |
It's a closely fought contest. The 1966 Saab Sonett V4 (Sonett II) brings lighter weight, greater rarity to the table, and the 1973 Porsche 914 2.0 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.
The rivalry between Sweden and Germany automotive industries has produced legendary matchups, and the 1966 Saab Sonett V4 (Sonett II) versus 1973 Porsche 914 2.0 is among the most fascinating. These two cars represent the best of their national engineering schools. The 1973 Porsche 914 2.0 holds a clear advantage in raw power with 100 hp compared to 65 hp, a 35-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Saab Sonett uses a V4 OHV displacing 1,498 cc, while the Porsche 914 relies on a Flat-4 SOHC with 1,971 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1973 Porsche 914 2.0 edges ahead at 9.8 seconds versus 12.5 seconds. The Saab Sonett carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 418 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 1,868 units built, the 1966 Saab Sonett V4 (Sonett II) is considerably scarcer than the Porsche 914's 95,000 examples. Both trade at comparable values on the collector market, making the choice between them largely one of personal preference.