Sweden vs West Germany — 1978 vs 1978
| 99 Turbo | 911 SC Targa | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 145 hp | 180 hp |
| Torque | 173 lb-ft | 196 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 1,985 cc | 2,994 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 8.3 sec | 6.3 sec |
| Top Speed | 124 mph | 146 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 16.3 sec | 14.8 sec |
| Weight | — | 2,557 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,470 mm | 2,272 mm |
| Length | 4,384 mm | 4,291 mm |
| Units Produced | 10,607 | 58,914 |
| Original MSRP | — | $27,450 |
| Value (Excellent) | $35,000 | $150,000 |
| Collectibility | 5/10 | 7/10 |
| Rarity | 7/10 | 4/10 |
The 1978 Porsche 911 SC Targa emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1978 Saab 99 Turbo counters with greater rarity, 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.
Putting the 1978 Saab 99 Turbo against the 1978 Porsche 911 SC Targa is a comparison that enthusiasts have debated for decades. Each car reflects distinct design philosophies shaped by different automotive cultures — Sweden versus West Germany. The 1978 Porsche 911 SC Targa holds a clear advantage in raw power with 180 hp compared to 145 hp, a 35-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 911 SC relies on a Flat-6 SOHC with 2,994 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1978 Porsche 911 SC Targa edges ahead at 6.3 seconds versus 8.3 seconds. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 10,607 units built, the 1978 Saab 99 Turbo is considerably scarcer than the Porsche 911 SC's 58,914 examples. On the collector market, the 1978 Porsche 911 SC Targa commands a significant premium over the 1978 Saab 99 Turbo, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1978 Porsche 911 SC Targa rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.