2005 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1988 Saab 9000
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Saab 9000. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Saab 9000 would be higher. At 5,506 cc (12 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL (493 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 318 more horse power than 1988 Saab 9000. (175 HP @ 5300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1988 Saab 9000. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 676 kg more than 1988 Saab 9000. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 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 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL (800 Nm) has 522 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Saab 9000. (278 Nm). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Saab 9000.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1988 Saab 9000 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Saab |
| Model | SL | 9000 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5506 cc | 1985 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 493 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 800 Nm | 278 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2009 kg | 1333 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2670 mm |
