1987 Mercedes-Benz 300 vs. 1972 Saab 99
To start off, 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Saab 99. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Saab 99 would be higher. At 2,962 cc (6 cylinders), 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300 (185 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 77 more horse power than 1972 Saab 99. (108 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300 should accelerate faster than 1972 Saab 99. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300 weights approximately 380 kg more than 1972 Saab 99. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1972 Saab 99. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300 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, 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300 (260 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 93 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Saab 99. (167 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Saab 99.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300 | 1972 Saab 99 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Saab |
| Model | 300 | 99 |
| Year Released | 1987 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2962 cc | 1985 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 185 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 260 Nm | 167 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 3700 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.7:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1530 kg | 1150 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2480 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 72 L | 62 L |
