Sweden vs Sweden — 1966 vs 1978
| 96 V4 | 99 Turbo | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 65 hp | 145 hp |
| Torque | 84 lb-ft | 173 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 1,498 cc | 1,985 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 14.0 sec | 8.3 sec |
| Top Speed | 93 mph | 124 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 19.5 sec | 16.3 sec |
| Wheelbase | 2,490 mm | 2,470 mm |
| Length | 4,060 mm | 4,384 mm |
| Units Produced | 547,221 | 10,607 |
| Value (Excellent) | $25,000 | $35,000 |
| Collectibility | 5/10 | 5/10 |
| Rarity | 5/10 | 7/10 |
The 1978 Saab 99 Turbo emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1966 Saab 96 V4 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.
Within the Saab stable, the 1966 Saab 96 V4 and 1978 Saab 99 Turbo represent different approaches to performance and purpose. Both carry the Saab badge, yet each carves out its own distinct identity. The 1978 Saab 99 Turbo holds a clear advantage in raw power with 145 hp compared to 65 hp, a 80-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Saab 96 uses a V4 OHV 8V displacing 1,498 cc, while the Saab 99 relies on a Inline-4 SOHC 8V Turbocharged with 1,985 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1978 Saab 99 Turbo edges ahead at 8.3 seconds versus 14.0 seconds. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 10,607 units built, the 1978 Saab 99 Turbo is considerably scarcer than the Saab 96's 547,221 examples.