1974 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1979 Saab 900
To start off, 1979 Saab 900 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Mercedes-Benz S 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 98 more horse power than 1979 Saab 900. (100 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1974 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1979 Saab 900. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 475 kg more than 1979 Saab 900. 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, 1979 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, 1974 Mercedes-Benz S (286 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 124 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Saab 900. (162 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1974 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Saab 900.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Mercedes-Benz S | 1979 Saab 900 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Saab |
| Model | S | 900 |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3499 cc | 1983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 198 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 286 Nm | 162 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1675 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4970 mm | 4750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 2530 mm |
