1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 vs. 1999 Saab 03-Sep
To start off, 1999 Saab 03-Sep is newer by 21 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 2,399 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Saab 03-Sep (130 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 58 more horse power than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. (72 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Saab 03-Sep 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 80 kg more than 1999 Saab 03-Sep.
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, 1999 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, 1999 Saab 03-Sep (177 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. (137 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1999 Saab 03-Sep 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 | 1999 Saab 03-Sep | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Saab |
| Model | 240 | 03-Sep |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2399 cc | 1983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 72 HP | 130 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 137 Nm | 177 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 91 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.4 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 21.0:1 | 10.1:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1305 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 68 L |
