1996 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1991 Saab 9000
To start off, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Saab 9000. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Saab 9000 would be higher. At 5,985 cc (12 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S (389 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 259 more horse power than 1991 Saab 9000. (130 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1991 Saab 9000. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 765 kg more than 1991 Saab 9000. 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, 1991 Saab 9000, 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 (570 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 397 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Saab 9000. (173 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Saab 9000. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 1991 Saab 9000 has manual transmission. 1991 Saab 9000 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 | 1991 Saab 9000 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Saab |
| Model | S | 9000 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1991 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5985 cc | 1985 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 389 HP | 130 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 570 Nm | 173 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80.2 mm | 78 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2180 kg | 1415 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5120 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2670 mm |
