1998 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1991 Saab 900
To start off, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Saab 900. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Saab 900 would be higher. At 2,799 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (204 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 66 more horse power than 1991 Saab 900. (138 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1991 Saab 900. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 510 kg more than 1991 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, 1991 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 (270 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Saab 900. (180 Nm @ 2900 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Saab 900. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1991 Saab 900 has manual transmission. 1991 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 | 1991 Saab 900 | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Saab |
Model | SL | 900 |
Year Released | 1998 | 1991 |
Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2799 cc | 1985 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 204 HP | 138 HP |
Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 270 Nm | 180 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2900 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 90 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 73.5 mm | 78 mm |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1810 kg | 1300 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4640 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1720 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2530 mm |