1996 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1989 Saab 9000
To start off, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Saab 9000. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Saab 9000 would be higher. At 5,956 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL (375 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 225 more horse power than 1989 Saab 9000. (150 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1989 Saab 9000. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 600 kg more than 1989 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 SL 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 SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 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 SL (580 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 368 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Saab 9000. (212 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Saab 9000. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1989 Saab 9000 has manual transmission. 1989 Saab 9000 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1989 Saab 9000 | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Saab |
Model | SL | 9000 |
Year Released | 1996 | 1989 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 5956 cc | 2290 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 375 HP | 150 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 580 Nm | 212 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 3800 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 100 mm | 90 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 94.8 mm | 90 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.1:1 |
Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 203 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 2050 kg | 1450 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4780 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1430 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2670 mm |