1974 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1999 Saab 05-Sep
To start off, 1999 Saab 05-Sep is newer by 25 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, 1974 Mercedes-Benz S (156 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 1999 Saab 05-Sep. (148 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1974 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1999 Saab 05-Sep. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 80 kg more than 1999 Saab 05-Sep. 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, 1999 Saab 05-Sep, 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, 1999 Saab 05-Sep (240 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Mercedes-Benz S. (223 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1999 Saab 05-Sep 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 | 1999 Saab 05-Sep | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Saab |
| Model | S | 05-Sep |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2744 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 156 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 223 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.7:1 | 9.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1610 kg | 1530 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4970 mm | 4810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 75 L |
