1990 Mercedes-Benz 260 vs. 1972 Saab 99
To start off, 1990 Mercedes-Benz 260 is newer by 18 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 2,599 cc (6 cylinders), 1990 Mercedes-Benz 260 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 Mercedes-Benz 260 (168 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 1972 Saab 99. (108 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1990 Mercedes-Benz 260 should accelerate faster than 1972 Saab 99. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 Mercedes-Benz 260 weights approximately 374 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 1990 Mercedes-Benz 260 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 1990 Mercedes-Benz 260. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1972 Saab 99, 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, 1990 Mercedes-Benz 260 (228 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 61 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Saab 99. (167 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 1990 Mercedes-Benz 260 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Saab 99.
Compare all specifications:
1990 Mercedes-Benz 260 | 1972 Saab 99 | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Saab |
Model | 260 | 99 |
Year Released | 1990 | 1972 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2599 cc | 1985 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 168 HP | 108 HP |
Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 228 Nm | 167 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 3700 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 | 8.7:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1524 kg | 1150 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 4430 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1700 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1450 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2940 mm | 2480 mm |