1997 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 1998 Saab 900i
To start off, 1998 Saab 900i is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mercedes-Benz A would be higher. At 1,985 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Saab 900i is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Saab 900i (126 HP) has 67 more horse power than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (59 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Saab 900i should accelerate faster than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Saab 900i weights approximately 175 kg more than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1998 Saab 900i (170 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (160 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 1998 Saab 900i will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Mercedes-Benz A | 1998 Saab 900i | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Saab |
| Model | A | 900i |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1689 cc | 1985 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 126 HP |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 19.5:1 | 10.1:1 |
| Top Speed | 153 km/hour | 180 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 17.3 seconds | 11.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1120 kg | 1295 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3580 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1580 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 68 L |
