1982 Mercedes-Benz 380 vs. 1999 Saab 03-Sep
To start off, 1999 Saab 03-Sep is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380 would be higher. At 3,839 cc (8 cylinders), 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Saab 03-Sep (231 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380. (205 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Saab 03-Sep should accelerate faster than 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380 weights approximately 140 kg more than 1999 Saab 03-Sep.
Because 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380 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 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 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, 1999 Saab 03-Sep (357 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 42 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380. (315 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 1999 Saab 03-Sep will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380. 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380 has automatic transmission and 1999 Saab 03-Sep has manual transmission. 1999 Saab 03-Sep will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380 | 1999 Saab 03-Sep | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Saab |
| Model | 380 | 03-Sep |
| Year Released | 1982 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3839 cc | 2290 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 205 HP | 231 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 315 Nm | 357 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.9 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 9.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1615 kg | 1475 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5140 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3080 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 68 L |
