2005 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 1988 Saab 900i

To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Saab 900i. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Saab 900i would be higher. At 3,221 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz E (221 HP @ 3000 RPM) has 86 more horse power than 1988 Saab 900i. (135 HP @ 5300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1988 Saab 900i. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 360 kg more than 1988 Saab 900i. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2005 Mercedes-Benz E 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 E. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Saab 900i, 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 E (315 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 143 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Saab 900i. (172 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Saab 900i. 2005 Mercedes-Benz E has automatic transmission and 1988 Saab 900i has manual transmission. 1988 Saab 900i will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Mercedes-Benz E will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2005 Mercedes-Benz E 1988 Saab 900i
Make Mercedes-Benz Saab
Model E 900i
Year Released 2005 1988
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3221 cc 1985 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 221 HP 135 HP
Engine RPM 3000 RPM 5300 RPM
Torque 315 Nm 172 Nm
Torque RPM 3000 RPM 3000 RPM
Engine Bore Size 89.9 mm 90 mm
Engine Stroke Size 84 mm 78 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 10.0:1 10.1:1
Top Speed 245 km/hour 180 km/hour
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Weight 1645 kg 1285 kg
Vehicle Length 4820 mm 4950 mm
Vehicle Width 1830 mm 1700 mm
Vehicle Height 1460 mm 1430 mm
Wheelbase Size 2860 mm 2720 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 80 L 58 L