1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 vs. 1985 Saab 900
To start off, 1985 Saab 900 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 would be higher. At 2,398 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Saab 900 (100 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. (72 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1985 Saab 900 should accelerate faster than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 weights approximately 385 kg more than 1985 Saab 900.
Because 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 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 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1985 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, 1985 Saab 900 (162 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. (137 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1985 Saab 900 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 | 1985 Saab 900 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Saab |
| Model | 240 | 900 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2398 cc | 1985 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 72 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 137 Nm | 162 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 90.9 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.4 mm | 78 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 8 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1565 kg | 1180 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5360 mm | 4750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3430 mm | 2530 mm |
