1966 Saab 96 vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 45 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 Saab 96. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 Saab 96 would be higher. At 2,143 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz E (201 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 137 more horse power than 1966 Saab 96. (64 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1966 Saab 96. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 952 kg more than 1966 Saab 96. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 Mercedes-Benz E 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 2011 Mercedes-Benz E. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1966 Saab 96, 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz E (500 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 384 more torque (in Nm) than 1966 Saab 96. (116 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1966 Saab 96. 2011 Mercedes-Benz E has automatic transmission and 1966 Saab 96 has manual transmission. 1966 Saab 96 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Mercedes-Benz E will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1966 Saab 96 | 2011 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Saab | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 96 | E |
| Year Released | 1966 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1498 cc | 2143 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 64 HP | 201 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 116 Nm | 500 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 873 kg | 1825 kg |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 38 L | 80 L |
