1968 Mercedes-Benz 280 vs. 1986 Saab 9000
To start off, 1986 Saab 9000 is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Mercedes-Benz 280. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Mercedes-Benz 280 would be higher. At 2,744 cc (6 cylinders), 1968 Mercedes-Benz 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1968 Mercedes-Benz 280 (160 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1986 Saab 9000. (135 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1968 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 1986 Saab 9000. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1968 Mercedes-Benz 280 weights approximately 305 kg more than 1986 Saab 9000. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1968 Mercedes-Benz 280 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 1968 Mercedes-Benz 280. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 Saab 9000, 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, 1968 Mercedes-Benz 280 (225 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 53 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Saab 9000. (172 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1968 Mercedes-Benz 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Saab 9000.
Compare all specifications:
| 1968 Mercedes-Benz 280 | 1986 Saab 9000 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Saab |
| Model | 280 | 9000 |
| Year Released | 1968 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2744 cc | 1985 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 135 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 225 Nm | 172 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 90.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.1:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1610 kg | 1305 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4970 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 95 L | 54 L |
