1980 Saab 900 vs. 1994 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 1994 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Saab 900. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Saab 900 would be higher. At 2,799 cc (6 cylinders), 1994 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1994 Mercedes-Benz SL (190 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 90 more horse power than 1980 Saab 900. (100 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1994 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1980 Saab 900. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1994 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 580 kg more than 1980 Saab 900. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1994 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 1994 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 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 Mercedes-Benz SL (271 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 108 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Saab 900. (163 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1994 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Saab 900.
Compare all specifications:
1980 Saab 900 | 1994 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | Saab | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | 900 | SL |
Year Released | 1980 | 1994 |
Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1985 cc | 2799 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 100 HP | 190 HP |
Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 163 Nm | 271 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3750 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 90 mm | 89.9 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 78 mm | 73.5 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1180 kg | 1760 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4750 mm | 4470 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1820 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1300 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2520 mm |