1980 Saab 900 vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 28 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 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz E (187 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 87 more horse power than 1980 Saab 900. (100 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1980 Saab 900. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 675 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 2008 Mercedes-Benz E 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 2008 Mercedes-Benz E. 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz E (400 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 237 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Saab 900. (163 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Saab 900.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Saab 900 | 2008 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Saab | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 900 | E |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1985 cc | 2986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 187 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 163 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 90 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78 mm | 92 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1180 kg | 1855 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4750 mm | 4860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2860 mm |
