1986 Saab 9000 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz GL
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz GL is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Saab 9000. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Saab 9000 would be higher. At 3,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz GL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz GL (210 HP @ 3400 RPM) has 75 more horse power than 1986 Saab 9000. (135 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz GL should accelerate faster than 1986 Saab 9000. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz GL weights approximately 1216 kg more than 1986 Saab 9000. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 Mercedes-Benz GL is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1986 Saab 9000. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz GL will offer significantly more control. 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz GL (542 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 370 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Saab 9000. (172 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz GL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Saab 9000. 2012 Mercedes-Benz GL has automatic transmission and 1986 Saab 9000 has manual transmission. 1986 Saab 9000 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Mercedes-Benz GL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Saab 9000 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz GL | |
| Make | Saab | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 9000 | GL |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1985 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 135 HP | 210 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Torque | 172 Nm | 542 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1284 kg | 2500 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 5098 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1989 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1839 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 3076 mm |
