1998 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2005 Saab 03-Sep
To start off, 2005 Saab 03-Sep is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (349 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 201 more horse power than 2005 Saab 03-Sep. (148 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2005 Saab 03-Sep. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 310 kg more than 2005 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 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, 2005 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 SL (530 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 289 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Saab 03-Sep. (241 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Saab 03-Sep. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 2005 Saab 03-Sep has manual transmission. 2005 Saab 03-Sep 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 | 2005 Saab 03-Sep | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Saab |
| Model | SL | 03-Sep |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5439 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 349 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 530 Nm | 241 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 86 mm |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 210 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.2 seconds | 9.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1820 kg | 1510 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 12.8 L/100km | 8.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 61 L |
