1974 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1970 Saab 99
To start off, 1974 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Saab 99. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Saab 99 would be higher. At 3,499 cc (8 cylinders), 1974 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Mercedes-Benz S (198 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 112 more horse power than 1970 Saab 99. (86 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1974 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1970 Saab 99. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 605 kg more than 1970 Saab 99. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 Mercedes-Benz S 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 S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1970 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, 1974 Mercedes-Benz S (286 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 156 more torque (in Nm) than 1970 Saab 99. (130 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1974 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1970 Saab 99.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Mercedes-Benz S | 1970 Saab 99 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Saab |
| Model | S | 99 |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1970 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3499 cc | 1709 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 198 HP | 86 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 286 Nm | 130 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1675 kg | 1070 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4970 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 2480 mm |
