The one scenario I can think of where a center-differential/transfer-case would fare better is with lockers in an off-road situation.
But you can also put a locking diff or LSD on a 2-motor electric drive, with a virtual “transfer case” handling the F/R split electronically and many times per second. Or you can go even further like Rivian with their 4-motor electric drive and let each wheel be directly and independently controlled which is far superior to an old locked diff and transfer case.
Rivian sells both 2-motor and 4-motor versions of their trucks.
I think the Saabs that you’re talking about were motor-in-wheel technology which is a very different thing: it is great for efficiency and packaging, but all the unsprung weight is a challenge.