1998 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 2012 Saab 03-Sep
To start off, 2012 Saab 03-Sep is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz A would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Saab 03-Sep is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Saab 03-Sep (220 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 140 more horse power than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. (80 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Saab 03-Sep should accelerate faster than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Saab 03-Sep weights approximately 505 kg more than 1998 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, 2012 Saab 03-Sep (349 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 219 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. (130 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2012 Saab 03-Sep will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. 1998 Mercedes-Benz A has automatic transmission and 2012 Saab 03-Sep has manual transmission. 2012 Saab 03-Sep will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Mercedes-Benz A will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mercedes-Benz A | 2012 Saab 03-Sep | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Saab |
| Model | A | 03-Sep |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1397 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 80 HP | 220 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 130 Nm | 349 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1095 kg | 1600 kg |
| Fuel Consumption | 6.3 L/100km | 7.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 10.4 L/100km | 11.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 61 L |
