1997 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1969 Saab 99
To start off, 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1969 Saab 99. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1969 Saab 99 would be higher. At 4,971 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL (315 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 236 more horse power than 1969 Saab 99. (79 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1969 Saab 99. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 699 kg more than 1969 Saab 99. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 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 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1969 Saab 99, 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, 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL (468 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 340 more torque (in Nm) than 1969 Saab 99. (128 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1969 Saab 99.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1969 Saab 99 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Saab |
| Model | SL | 99 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1969 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4971 cc | 1707 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 315 HP | 79 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 468 Nm | 128 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 96.5 mm | 83.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1769 kg | 1070 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2530 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 54 L |
