Sweden vs Sweden — 1960 vs 1978
| 96 Monte Carlo 850 | 900 Turbo 8V Classic | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 57 hp | 145 hp |
| Torque | 56 lb-ft | 170 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 841 cc | 1,985 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 14.5 sec | 8.8 sec |
| Top Speed | 92 mph | 124 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 19.8 sec | 16.5 sec |
| Weight | 1,852 lbs | 2,712 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,490 mm | 2,520 mm |
| Length | 4,010 mm | 4,732 mm |
| Original MSRP | $2,295 | $21,500 |
| Value (Excellent) | $60,000 | $25,000 |
| Collectibility | 8/10 | 7/10 |
| Rarity | 8/10 | 5/10 |
The 1978 Saab 900 Turbo 8V Classic emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1960 Saab 96 Monte Carlo 850 counters with lighter weight, stronger collectibility, 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.
The 1960 Saab 96 Monte Carlo 850 and 1978 Saab 900 Turbo 8V Classic share a manufacturer in Saab, but that's where the similarities get interesting. These two models reveal the versatility and ambition of the Saab brand. The 1978 Saab 900 Turbo 8V Classic holds a clear advantage in raw power with 145 hp compared to 57 hp, a 88-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Saab 96 uses a Inline-3 Two-Stroke displacing 841 cc, while the Saab 900 relies on a Inline-4 SOHC 8V Turbocharged with 1,985 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1978 Saab 900 Turbo 8V Classic edges ahead at 8.8 seconds versus 14.5 seconds. The Saab 96 carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 860 lbs lighter. On the collector market, the 1960 Saab 96 Monte Carlo 850 commands a significant premium over the 1978 Saab 900 Turbo 8V Classic, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.