1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 vs. 2004 Saab 03-Sep
To start off, 2004 Saab 03-Sep is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 would be higher. At 4,196 cc (8 cylinders), 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 (219 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 71 more horse power than 2004 Saab 03-Sep. (148 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 should accelerate faster than 2004 Saab 03-Sep. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Saab 03-Sep weights approximately 60 kg more than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420.
Because 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 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 420. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 (329 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Saab 03-Sep. (315 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Saab 03-Sep.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 | 2004 Saab 03-Sep | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Saab |
| Model | 420 | 03-Sep |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4196 cc | 1910 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 219 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 329 Nm | 315 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.9 mm | 90.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 17.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 214 km/hour | 210 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9 seconds | 9.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1600 kg | 1660 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2680 mm |
