2003 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1991 Saab 900
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Saab 900. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Saab 900 would be higher. At 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL (302 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 164 more horse power than 1991 Saab 900. (138 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1991 Saab 900. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 605 kg more than 1991 Saab 900. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1991 Saab 900, 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 SL (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 280 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Saab 900. (180 Nm @ 2900 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Saab 900. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1991 Saab 900 has manual transmission. 1991 Saab 900 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1991 Saab 900 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Saab |
| Model | SL | 900 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1991 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| 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 | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 460 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 2900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 78 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1905 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2530 mm |
