1989 Saab 9000 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz CL
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz CL is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Saab 9000. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Saab 9000 would be higher. At 4,700 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz CL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz CL (429 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 279 more horse power than 1989 Saab 9000. (150 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz CL should accelerate faster than 1989 Saab 9000. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz CL weights approximately 645 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 2012 Mercedes-Benz CL is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1989 Saab 9000. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz CL 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 CL (699 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 487 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Saab 9000. (212 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz CL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Saab 9000. 2012 Mercedes-Benz CL 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. 2012 Mercedes-Benz CL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Saab 9000 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz CL | |
| Make | Saab | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 9000 | CL |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2290 cc | 4700 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 429 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 212 Nm | 699 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1450 kg | 2095 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 5095 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1872 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1417 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2954 mm |
