1971 Saab 99 vs. 2013 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2013 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 42 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Saab 99. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Saab 99 would be higher. At 5,500 cc (8 cylinders), 2013 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Mercedes-Benz E (511 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 426 more horse power than 1971 Saab 99. (85 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1971 Saab 99. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 720 kg more than 1971 Saab 99. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2013 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 2013 Mercedes-Benz E. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1971 Saab 99, 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, 2013 Mercedes-Benz E (700 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 553 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Saab 99. (147 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2013 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Saab 99.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Saab 99 | 2013 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Saab | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 99 | E |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2013 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1853 cc | 5500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | W |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 511 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 147 Nm | 700 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 98 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78 mm | 90 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1120 kg | 1840 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4887 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 2071 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2874 mm |
