2005 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1980 Saab 900
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Saab 900. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Saab 900 would be higher. At 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C (362 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 254 more horse power than 1980 Saab 900. (108 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1980 Saab 900. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 515 kg more than 1980 Saab 900. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 Mercedes-Benz C 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 2005 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C (510 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 346 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Saab 900. (164 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Saab 900.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mercedes-Benz C | 1980 Saab 900 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Saab |
| Model | C | 900 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5439 cc | 1985 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 362 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 510 Nm | 164 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1695 kg | 1180 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 4750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2530 mm |
