1988 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2001 Saab 03-Sep
To start off, 2001 Saab 03-Sep is newer by 13 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 2,599 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Saab 03-Sep (230 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 1988 Mercedes-Benz S. (165 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Saab 03-Sep should accelerate faster than 1988 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 82 kg more than 2001 Saab 03-Sep.
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, 2001 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, 2001 Saab 03-Sep (351 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 123 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Mercedes-Benz S. (228 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 2001 Saab 03-Sep will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Mercedes-Benz S | 2001 Saab 03-Sep | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Saab |
| Model | S | 03-Sep |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2599 cc | 2290 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 165 HP | 230 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 228 Nm | 351 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.9 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80.3 mm | 90 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1520 kg | 1438 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 4650 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2610 mm |
