1998 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1979 Saab 900
To start off, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Saab 900. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Saab 900 would be higher. At 5,987 cc (12 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (389 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 289 more horse power than 1979 Saab 900. (100 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1979 Saab 900. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 850 kg more than 1979 Saab 900. 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, 1979 Saab 900, 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 (570 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 408 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Saab 900. (162 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Saab 900. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1979 Saab 900 has manual transmission. 1979 Saab 900 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 | 1979 Saab 900 | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Saab |
Model | SL | 900 |
Year Released | 1998 | 1979 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 5987 cc | 1983 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 389 HP | 100 HP |
Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Torque | 570 Nm | 162 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 89.1 mm | 90 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 80.2 mm | 78 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.2:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 2050 kg | 1200 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4750 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1700 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1430 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2530 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 58 L |