1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 vs. 2003 Saab 05-Sep
To start off, 2003 Saab 05-Sep is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 would be higher. At 2,962 cc (6 cylinders), 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 (220 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 72 more horse power than 2003 Saab 05-Sep. (148 HP @ 5300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 should accelerate faster than 2003 Saab 05-Sep. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Saab 05-Sep weights approximately 18 kg more than 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300.
Because 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 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 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 (265 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Saab 05-Sep. (240 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Saab 05-Sep.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 | 2003 Saab 05-Sep | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Saab |
| Model | 300 | 05-Sep |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2962 cc | 1983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 220 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 265 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1470 kg | 1488 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4660 mm | 4820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2710 mm |
