1984 Saab 900 vs. 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Saab 900. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Saab 900 would be higher. At 5,500 cc (8 cylinders), 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK (409 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 309 more horse power than 1984 Saab 900. (100 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1984 Saab 900. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 430 kg more than 1984 Saab 900. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1984 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, 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK (540 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 378 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Saab 900. (162 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Saab 900.
Compare all specifications:
| 1984 Saab 900 | 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Saab | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 900 | SLK |
| Year Released | 1984 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1983 cc | 5500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 409 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Torque | 162 Nm | 540 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 90 mm | 98 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 | 12.6:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1180 kg | 1610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4750 mm | 4146 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 2006 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2430 mm |
