1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 vs. 1994 Saab 900
To start off, 1994 Saab 900 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 would be higher. At 2,746 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1994 Saab 900 (223 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280. (182 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1994 Saab 900 should accelerate faster than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 weights approximately 46 kg more than 1994 Saab 900.
Because 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 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 280. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1994 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, 1994 Saab 900 (342 Nm @ 2100 RPM) has 101 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280. (241 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1994 Saab 900 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 | 1994 Saab 900 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Saab |
| Model | 280 | 900 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1994 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2746 cc | 1985 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 182 HP | 223 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 241 Nm | 342 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2100 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 78 mm |
| Top Speed | 200 km/hour | 211 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1475 kg | 1429 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 68 L |
