1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 vs. 1985 Saab 90
To start off, 1985 Saab 90 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 would be higher. At 2,778 cc (6 cylinders), 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 (160 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 1985 Saab 90. (100 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 1985 Saab 90. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 weights approximately 390 kg more than 1985 Saab 90. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 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 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1985 Saab 90, 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, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 (224 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 62 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Saab 90. (162 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Saab 90.
Compare all specifications:
1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 | 1985 Saab 90 | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Saab |
Model | 280 | 90 |
Year Released | 1973 | 1985 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2778 cc | 1983 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 160 HP | 100 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Torque | 224 Nm | 162 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 86.5 mm | 90 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 78 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 9.2:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1500 kg | 1110 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4910 mm | 4590 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1700 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1450 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2470 mm |