1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK vs. 1970 Saab 99
To start off, 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Saab 99. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Saab 99 would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK (161 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 75 more horse power than 1970 Saab 99. (86 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1970 Saab 99. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 220 kg more than 1970 Saab 99. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1970 Saab 99, 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, 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK (234 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 104 more torque (in Nm) than 1970 Saab 99. (130 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1970 Saab 99.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK | 1970 Saab 99 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Saab |
| Model | SLK | 99 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1970 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1709 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 161 HP | 86 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 234 Nm | 130 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1290 kg | 1070 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2480 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 54 L |
