1974 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1985 Saab 9000
To start off, 1985 Saab 9000 is newer by 11 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 2,744 cc (6 cylinders), 1974 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Saab 9000 (173 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 1974 Mercedes-Benz S. (156 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1985 Saab 9000 should accelerate faster than 1974 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 210 kg more than 1985 Saab 9000.
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, 1985 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, 1985 Saab 9000 (278 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Mercedes-Benz S. (223 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1985 Saab 9000 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Mercedes-Benz S | 1985 Saab 9000 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Saab |
| Model | S | 9000 |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2744 cc | 1985 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 156 HP | 173 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 223 Nm | 278 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 90.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.7:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1610 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4970 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 54 L |
