1991 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1966 Saab 96
To start off, 1991 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 Saab 96. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 Saab 96 would be higher. At 2,598 cc (6 cylinders), 1991 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Mercedes-Benz S (164 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 100 more horse power than 1966 Saab 96. (64 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1991 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1966 Saab 96. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 647 kg more than 1966 Saab 96. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1991 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 1991 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1966 Saab 96, 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, 1991 Mercedes-Benz S (228 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 112 more torque (in Nm) than 1966 Saab 96. (116 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1991 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1966 Saab 96.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Mercedes-Benz S | 1966 Saab 96 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Saab |
| Model | S | 96 |
| Year Released | 1991 | 1966 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2598 cc | 1498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 164 HP | 64 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 228 Nm | 116 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.9 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80.3 mm | 58.9 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1520 kg | 873 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2500 mm |
