2005 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1980 Saab 900
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz S 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 5,441 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz S (493 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 393 more horse power than 1980 Saab 900. (100 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1980 Saab 900. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 770 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 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 2005 Mercedes-Benz S. 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 S (700 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 537 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Saab 900. (163 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Saab 900.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mercedes-Benz S | 1980 Saab 900 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Saab |
| Model | S | 900 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5441 cc | 1985 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 493 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 700 Nm | 163 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 3500 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 |
| Vehicle Weight | 1950 kg | 1180 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5170 mm | 4750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3090 mm | 2530 mm |
