1980 Saab 900 vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz CL
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz CL is newer by 31 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 5,500 cc (12 cylinders), 2011 Mercedes-Benz CL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz CL (510 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 410 more horse power than 1980 Saab 900. (100 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz CL should accelerate faster than 1980 Saab 900. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mercedes-Benz CL weights approximately 1040 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 2011 Mercedes-Benz CL 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 2011 Mercedes-Benz CL. 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz CL (829 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 666 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Saab 900. (163 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz CL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Saab 900.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Saab 900 | 2011 Mercedes-Benz CL | |
| Make | Saab | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 900 | CL |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1985 cc | 5500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 510 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 163 Nm | 829 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1180 kg | 2220 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4750 mm | 5095 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1872 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1417 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2954 mm |
