1974 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1998 Saab 900i
To start off, 1998 Saab 900i is newer by 24 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 4,520 cc (8 cylinders), 1974 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Mercedes-Benz S (223 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 97 more horse power than 1998 Saab 900i. (126 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1974 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1998 Saab 900i. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 435 kg more than 1998 Saab 900i. 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, 1998 Saab 900i, 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 (378 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 208 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Saab 900i. (170 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1974 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Saab 900i.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Mercedes-Benz S | 1998 Saab 900i | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Saab |
| Model | S | 900i |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4520 cc | 1985 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 223 HP | 126 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 378 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 78 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1730 kg | 1295 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4970 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 2520 mm |
