1996 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2008 Saab 05-Sep
To start off, 2008 Saab 05-Sep is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 3,199 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Saab 05-Sep (260 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 1996 Mercedes-Benz S. (228 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Saab 05-Sep should accelerate faster than 1996 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 306 kg more than 2008 Saab 05-Sep.
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, 2008 Saab 05-Sep, 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, 2008 Saab 05-Sep (350 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mercedes-Benz S. (315 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2008 Saab 05-Sep will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mercedes-Benz S | 2008 Saab 05-Sep | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Saab |
| Model | S | 05-Sep |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3199 cc | 2299 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 260 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 315 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1896 kg | 1590 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5120 mm | 4840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 68 L |
