1988 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1989 Saab 9000
To start off, 1989 Saab 9000 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 4,973 cc (8 cylinders), 1988 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Mercedes-Benz S (261 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 111 more horse power than 1989 Saab 9000. (150 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1989 Saab 9000. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 176 kg more than 1989 Saab 9000. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1988 Mercedes-Benz S 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 1988 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 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, 1988 Mercedes-Benz S (405 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 193 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Saab 9000. (212 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1988 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Saab 9000. 1988 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 1989 Saab 9000 has manual transmission. 1989 Saab 9000 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1988 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Mercedes-Benz S | 1989 Saab 9000 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Saab |
| Model | S | 9000 |
| Year Released | 1988 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4973 cc | 2290 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 261 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 405 Nm | 212 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 96.5 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 90 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1626 kg | 1450 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 4780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2670 mm |
