1998 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2001 Saab 05-Sep
To start off, 2001 Saab 05-Sep is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 4,964 cc (8 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz S (302 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 154 more horse power than 2001 Saab 05-Sep. (148 HP @ 5300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2001 Saab 05-Sep. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 370 kg more than 2001 Saab 05-Sep. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 Mercedes-Benz S 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 S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Saab 05-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 S (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 219 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Saab 05-Sep. (241 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Saab 05-Sep.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mercedes-Benz S | 2001 Saab 05-Sep | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Saab |
| Model | S | 05-Sep |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4964 cc | 1983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 302 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 460 Nm | 241 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 86 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1855 kg | 1485 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5040 mm | 4820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 88 L | 75 L |
