2002 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1980 Saab 900
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Saab 900. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Saab 900 would be higher. At 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (302 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 194 more horse power than 1980 Saab 900. (108 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1980 Saab 900. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 820 kg more than 1980 Saab 900. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1980 Saab 900. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will offer significantly more control. 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, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 296 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Saab 900. (164 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Saab 900.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Mercedes-Benz S | 1980 Saab 900 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Saab |
| Model | S | 900 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4966 cc | 1985 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 302 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 460 Nm | 164 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 2000 kg | 1180 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5170 mm | 4750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3090 mm | 2530 mm |
