2004 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1997 Saab 900
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Saab 900. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Saab 900 would be higher. At 5,441 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S (494 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 363 more horse power than 1997 Saab 900. (131 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1997 Saab 900. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 635 kg more than 1997 Saab 900. 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 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 2004 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S (700 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 522 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Saab 900. (178 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Saab 900.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mercedes-Benz S | 1997 Saab 900 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Saab |
| Model | S | 900 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5441 cc | 1985 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 494 HP | 131 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 700 Nm | 178 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 78 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1950 kg | 1315 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5170 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3090 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 88 L | 68 L |
