2003 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2012 Saab 03-Sep
To start off, 2012 Saab 03-Sep is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 4,964 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S (302 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 82 more horse power than 2012 Saab 03-Sep. (220 HP @ 5300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2012 Saab 03-Sep. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 335 kg more than 2012 Saab 03-Sep. 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, 2012 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 111 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Saab 03-Sep. (349 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Saab 03-Sep. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 2012 Saab 03-Sep has manual transmission. 2012 Saab 03-Sep 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 | 2012 Saab 03-Sep | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Saab |
| Model | S | 03-Sep |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4964 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 302 HP | 220 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 460 Nm | 349 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Flex Fuel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1875 kg | 1540 kg |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 88 L | 61 L |
