1998 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1988 Saab 900i
To start off, 1998 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Saab 900i. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Saab 900i would be higher. At 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz C (342 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 207 more horse power than 1988 Saab 900i. (135 HP @ 5300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1988 Saab 900i. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 285 kg more than 1988 Saab 900i. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 Mercedes-Benz C 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 1998 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Saab 900i, 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, 1998 Mercedes-Benz C (511 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 339 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Saab 900i. (172 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Saab 900i. 1998 Mercedes-Benz C has automatic transmission and 1988 Saab 900i has manual transmission. 1988 Saab 900i will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mercedes-Benz C | 1988 Saab 900i | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Saab |
| Model | C | 900i |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5439 cc | 1985 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 342 HP | 135 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 511 Nm | 172 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 78 mm |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 180 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1570 kg | 1285 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 58 L |
