1974 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 1988 Saab 900
To start off, 1988 Saab 900 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Mercedes-Benz E. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Mercedes-Benz E would be higher. At 1,987 cc (4 cylinders), 1974 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Saab 900 (101 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 1974 Mercedes-Benz E. (94 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 Saab 900 should accelerate faster than 1974 Mercedes-Benz E. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 150 kg more than 1988 Saab 900.
Because 1974 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 1974 Mercedes-Benz E. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Saab 900, 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, 1988 Saab 900 (162 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 3 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Mercedes-Benz E. (159 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1988 Saab 900 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Mercedes-Benz E.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Mercedes-Benz E | 1988 Saab 900 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Saab |
| Model | E | 900 |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1987 cc | 1985 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 94 HP | 101 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 159 Nm | 162 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 78 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1330 kg | 1180 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4700 mm | 4750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2530 mm |
