1976 Mercedes-Benz 230 vs. 2008 Saab 03-Sep
To start off, 2008 Saab 03-Sep is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230 would be higher. At 2,305 cc (4 cylinders), 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Saab 03-Sep (123 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230. (109 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Saab 03-Sep should accelerate faster than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Saab 03-Sep weights approximately 197 kg more than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230 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 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Saab 03-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, 2008 Saab 03-Sep (280 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 95 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230. (185 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Saab 03-Sep will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230 | 2008 Saab 03-Sep | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Saab |
| Model | 230 | 03-Sep |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2305 cc | 2171 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 109 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 185 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93.7 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 98 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 18.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1375 kg | 1572 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4650 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 58 L |
