1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 vs. 1991 Saab 9000
To start off, 1991 Saab 9000 is newer by 18 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 (170 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 1991 Saab 9000. (135 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 1991 Saab 9000. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Saab 9000 weights approximately 10 kg more than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280.
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, 1991 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, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 68 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Saab 9000. (172 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Saab 9000.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 | 1991 Saab 9000 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Saab |
| Model | 280 | 9000 |
| Year Released | 1973 | 1991 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2778 cc | 1985 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 135 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 172 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.5 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.1:1 |
| Top Speed | 200 km/hour | 192 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1295 kg | 1305 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 54 L |
