1978 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1991 Saab 9000
To start off, 1991 Saab 9000 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 2,746 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Saab 9000 (185 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. (157 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1991 Saab 9000 should accelerate faster than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 160 kg more than 1991 Saab 9000.
Because 1978 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 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1991 Saab 9000, 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, 1991 Saab 9000 (278 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. (223 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1991 Saab 9000 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Mercedes-Benz S | 1991 Saab 9000 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Saab |
| Model | S | 9000 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1991 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2746 cc | 1985 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 157 HP | 185 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 223 Nm | 278 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 90.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 78 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1610 kg | 1450 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 2680 mm |
