1985 Mercedes-Benz 230 vs. 1986 Saab 9000
To start off, 1986 Saab 9000 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230 would be higher. At 2,299 cc (4 cylinders), 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Saab 9000 (135 HP) has 1 more horse power than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230. (134 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1986 Saab 9000 should accelerate faster than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230 weights approximately 196 kg more than 1986 Saab 9000.
Because 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230 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 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 Saab 9000, 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, 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230 (206 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 34 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Saab 9000. (172 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Saab 9000.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230 | 1986 Saab 9000 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Saab |
| Model | 230 | 9000 |
| Year Released | 1985 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2299 cc | 1985 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 135 HP |
| Torque | 206 Nm | 172 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.5 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80.3 mm | 78 mm |
| Top Speed | 190 km/hour | 192 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1480 kg | 1284 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2670 mm |
