1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 vs. 2003 Saab 03-Sep
To start off, 2003 Saab 03-Sep is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 would be higher. At 2,298 cc (4 cylinders), 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Saab 03-Sep (250 HP) has 116 more horse power than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230. (134 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Saab 03-Sep should accelerate faster than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Saab 03-Sep weights approximately 305 kg more than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 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 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2003 Saab 03-Sep (370 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 165 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230. (205 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2003 Saab 03-Sep will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 | 2003 Saab 03-Sep | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Saab |
| Model | 230 | 03-Sep |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2298 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 250 HP |
| Torque | 205 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.5 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80.3 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 180 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1360 kg | 1665 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.9 L/100km | 9.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 61 L |
