Sweden vs Sweden — 1966 vs 2004
| Sonett III V4 | 9-5 Aero | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 65 hp | 260 hp |
| Torque | 89 lb-ft | 258 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 1,698 cc | 2,290 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 12.5 sec | 6.5 sec |
| Top Speed | 103 mph | 155 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 18.5 sec | 14.9 sec |
| Weight | 1,775 lbs | 3,351 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,146 mm | 2,703 mm |
| Length | 3,905 mm | 4,818 mm |
| Units Produced | 8,368 | 30,000 |
| Original MSRP | $4,295 | $43,500 |
| Value (Excellent) | $40,000 | $15,000 |
| Collectibility | 6/10 | 6/10 |
| Rarity | 7/10 | 5/10 |
Numbers favor the 2004 Saab 9-5 Aero with more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1966 Saab Sonett III V4 offers lighter weight, greater rarity, and has its own devoted following. For those who let their heart decide, either car delivers a rewarding ownership experience.
Saab has long offered a diverse lineup, and comparing the 1966 Saab Sonett III V4 with the 2004 Saab 9-5 Aero highlights the breadth of the marque's engineering philosophy. The 2004 Saab 9-5 Aero holds a clear advantage in raw power with 260 hp compared to 65 hp, a 195-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 Saab 9-5 relies on a Inline-4 Turbocharged with 2,290 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 2004 Saab 9-5 Aero edges ahead at 6.5 seconds versus 12.5 seconds. The Saab Sonett carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 1576 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 Saab 9-5's 30,000 examples. On the collector market, the 1966 Saab Sonett III V4 commands a significant premium over the 2004 Saab 9-5 Aero, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.