2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK vs. 1989 Saab 9000
To start off, 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Saab 9000. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Saab 9000 would be higher. At 2,290 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Saab 9000 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Saab 9000 (150 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (95 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Saab 9000 should accelerate faster than 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 150 kg more than 1989 Saab 9000.
Because 2001 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 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Saab 9000, 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, 1989 Saab 9000 (216 Nm) has 38 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (178 Nm). This means 1989 Saab 9000 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK. 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK has automatic transmission and 1989 Saab 9000 has manual transmission. 1989 Saab 9000 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK | 1989 Saab 9000 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Saab |
| Model | SLK | 9000 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1697 cc | 2290 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 95 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 178 Nm | 216 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1475 kg | 1325 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 38 L |
