2004 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1988 Saab 9000
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Saab 9000. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Saab 9000 would be higher. At 4,264 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S (275 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 71 more horse power than 1988 Saab 9000. (204 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1988 Saab 9000. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 730 kg more than 1988 Saab 9000. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 Mercedes-Benz S is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1988 Saab 9000. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S (400 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 110 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Saab 9000. (290 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Saab 9000. 2004 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 1988 Saab 9000 has manual transmission. 1988 Saab 9000 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mercedes-Benz S | 1988 Saab 9000 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Saab |
| Model | S | 9000 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4264 cc | 1985 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 275 HP | 204 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 290 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 90.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2050 kg | 1320 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2670 mm |
