2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK vs. 1980 Saab 900
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK 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 1,985 cc (4 cylinders), 1980 Saab 900 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK (168 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 1980 Saab 900. (118 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK should accelerate faster than 1980 Saab 900. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK weights approximately 463 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 CLK 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 CLK. 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 CLK (240 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 73 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Saab 900. (167 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Saab 900.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK | 1980 Saab 900 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Saab |
| Model | CLK | 900 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1985 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 167 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Top Speed | 225 km/hour | 167 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1665 kg | 1202 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 4950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2720 mm |
