1998 Mercedes-Benz CL vs. 2003 Saab 03-Sep
To start off, 2003 Saab 03-Sep is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mercedes-Benz CL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz CL would be higher. At 5,786 cc (12 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz CL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz CL (367 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 117 more horse power than 2003 Saab 03-Sep. (250 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz CL should accelerate faster than 2003 Saab 03-Sep. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz CL weights approximately 290 kg more than 2003 Saab 03-Sep. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 Mercedes-Benz CL 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 CL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Saab 03-Sep, 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 CL (530 Nm @ 5300 RPM) has 160 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Saab 03-Sep. (370 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz CL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Saab 03-Sep. 1998 Mercedes-Benz CL has automatic transmission and 2003 Saab 03-Sep has manual transmission. 2003 Saab 03-Sep will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Mercedes-Benz CL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mercedes-Benz CL | 2003 Saab 03-Sep | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Saab |
| Model | CL | 03-Sep |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5786 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 367 HP | 250 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 530 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5300 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 87 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1955 kg | 1665 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5000 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2970 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 88 L | 61 L |
