1942 Mercedes-Benz 500 vs. 1970 Saab Sonett III

To start off, 1970 Saab Sonett III is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1942 Mercedes-Benz 500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1942 Mercedes-Benz 500 would be higher. At 5,401 cc (8 cylinders), 1942 Mercedes-Benz 500 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1942 Mercedes-Benz 500 (177 HP @ 3500 RPM) has 113 more horse power than 1970 Saab Sonett III. (64 HP @ 4700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1942 Mercedes-Benz 500 should accelerate faster than 1970 Saab Sonett III. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1942 Mercedes-Benz 500 weights approximately 1600 kg more than 1970 Saab Sonett III. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1942 Mercedes-Benz 500 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1942 Mercedes-Benz 500. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1970 Saab Sonett III, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1942 Mercedes-Benz 500 (432 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 317 more torque (in Nm) than 1970 Saab Sonett III. (115 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1942 Mercedes-Benz 500 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1970 Saab Sonett III.

Compare all specifications:

1942 Mercedes-Benz 500 1970 Saab Sonett III
Make Mercedes-Benz Saab
Model 500 Sonett III
Year Released 1942 1970
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 5401 cc 1498 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 177 HP 64 HP
Engine RPM 3500 RPM 4700 RPM
Torque 432 Nm 115 Nm
Torque RPM 2200 RPM 2500 RPM
Engine Bore Size 88 mm 90 mm
Engine Stroke Size 111 mm 58.9 mm
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Doors 2 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 2400 kg 800 kg
Vehicle Length 5160 mm 3910 mm
Vehicle Width 1830 mm 1510 mm
Vehicle Height 1590 mm 1200 mm
Wheelbase Size 3300 mm 2160 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 120 L 60 L