2004 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1986 Saab 9000
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Saab 9000. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Saab 9000 would be higher. At 5,980 cc (12 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL (604 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 469 more horse power than 1986 Saab 9000. (135 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1986 Saab 9000. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 805 kg more than 1986 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 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 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL (998 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 826 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Saab 9000. (172 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Saab 9000. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1986 Saab 9000 has manual transmission. 1986 Saab 9000 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1986 Saab 9000 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Saab |
| Model | SL | 9000 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5980 cc | 1985 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 604 HP | 135 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 998 Nm | 172 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.1:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2110 kg | 1305 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2040 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 54 L |
