1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 vs. 2008 Saab 05-Sep
To start off, 2008 Saab 05-Sep is newer by 23 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, 2008 Saab 05-Sep (260 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420. (219 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Saab 05-Sep should accelerate faster than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 weights approximately 10 kg more than 2008 Saab 05-Sep.
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, 2008 Saab 05-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, 2008 Saab 05-Sep (350 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420. (329 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2008 Saab 05-Sep will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 | 2008 Saab 05-Sep | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Saab |
| Model | 420 | 05-Sep |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4196 cc | 2299 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 219 HP | 260 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 329 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1600 kg | 1590 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 4840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2710 mm |
