Sweden vs West Germany — 1966 vs 1965
| Sonett III V4 | 912 Coupe | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 65 hp | 90 hp |
| Torque | 89 lb-ft | 89 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 1,698 cc | 1,582 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 12.5 sec | 11.6 sec |
| Top Speed | 103 mph | 115 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 18.5 sec | 18.0 sec |
| Weight | 1,775 lbs | 2,128 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,146 mm | 2,268 mm |
| Length | 3,905 mm | 4,163 mm |
| Units Produced | 8,368 | 30,300 |
| Original MSRP | $4,295 | $4,790 |
| Value (Excellent) | $40,000 | $120,000 |
| Collectibility | 6/10 | 7/10 |
| Rarity | 7/10 | 5/10 |
This matchup is remarkably close. The 1966 Saab Sonett III V4 offers lighter weight, greater rarity, better value, while the 1965 Porsche 912 Coupe counters with more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. Neither holds a decisive advantage, making this a true enthusiast's dilemma. Your choice ultimately depends on which driving philosophy resonates more with you.
When Sweden engineering meets West Germany craftsmanship, the result is one of the most compelling matchups in the classic car world. The 1966 Saab Sonett III V4 and 1965 Porsche 912 Coupe embody their respective national automotive traditions while competing in the same arena. The 1965 Porsche 912 Coupe holds a clear advantage in raw power with 90 hp compared to 65 hp, a 25-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 Porsche 912 relies on a Flat-4 OHV with 1,582 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1965 Porsche 912 Coupe edges ahead at 11.6 seconds versus 12.5 seconds. The Saab Sonett carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 353 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 Porsche 912's 30,300 examples. On the collector market, the 1965 Porsche 912 Coupe commands a significant premium over the 1966 Saab Sonett III V4, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.