1996 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1988 Saab 900i
To start off, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Saab 900i. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Saab 900i would be higher. At 3,199 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S (228 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 93 more horse power than 1988 Saab 900i. (135 HP @ 5300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1988 Saab 900i. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 611 kg more than 1988 Saab 900i. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 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 1996 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Saab 900i, 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, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S (315 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 143 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Saab 900i. (172 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Saab 900i. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 1988 Saab 900i has manual transmission. 1988 Saab 900i will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mercedes-Benz S | 1988 Saab 900i | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Saab |
| Model | S | 900i |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3199 cc | 1985 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 135 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 315 Nm | 172 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.1:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1896 kg | 1285 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5120 mm | 4950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 58 L |
