2003 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1989 Saab 9000
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 14 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 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S (493 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 267 more horse power than 1989 Saab 9000. (226 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1989 Saab 9000. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 525 kg more than 1989 Saab 9000. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Mercedes-Benz S 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 2003 Mercedes-Benz S. 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S (700 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 349 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Saab 9000. (351 Nm @ 1900 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Saab 9000. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S 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. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Mercedes-Benz S | 1989 Saab 9000 | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Saab |
Model | S | 9000 |
Year Released | 2003 | 1989 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 5439 cc | 2290 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 493 HP | 226 HP |
Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 700 Nm | 351 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 1900 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 90 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 90 mm |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1985 kg | 1460 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 4770 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1780 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1430 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2970 mm | 2680 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 88 L | 66 L |