1998 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1966 Saab 96
To start off, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 Saab 96. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 Saab 96 would be higher. At 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (302 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 239 more horse power than 1966 Saab 96. (63 HP @ 4700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1966 Saab 96. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 960 kg more than 1966 Saab 96. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 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 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1966 Saab 96, 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 SL (461 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 346 more torque (in Nm) than 1966 Saab 96. (115 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1966 Saab 96. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1966 Saab 96 has manual transmission. 1966 Saab 96 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1966 Saab 96 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Saab |
| Model | SL | 96 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1966 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4966 cc | 1498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 302 HP | 63 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Torque | 461 Nm | 115 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 58.9 mm |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 145 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1890 kg | 930 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4310 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1600 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 38 L |
