1981 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2003 Saab 03-Sep
To start off, 2003 Saab 03-Sep is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 2,746 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Mercedes-Benz S (154 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 2003 Saab 03-Sep. (148 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1981 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2003 Saab 03-Sep. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 120 kg more than 2003 Saab 03-Sep. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 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 1981 Mercedes-Benz S. 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 (240 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Mercedes-Benz S. (223 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Saab 03-Sep will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Mercedes-Benz S. 2003 Saab 03-Sep has automatic transmission and 1981 Mercedes-Benz S has manual transmission. 1981 Mercedes-Benz S will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Saab 03-Sep will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1981 Mercedes-Benz S | 2003 Saab 03-Sep | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Saab |
Model | S | 03-Sep |
Year Released | 1981 | 2003 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2746 cc | 1983 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 154 HP | 148 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 223 Nm | 240 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 1440 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 4640 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2680 mm |