2005 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1990 Saab 9000
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Saab 9000. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Saab 9000 would be higher. At 5,441 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL (493 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 358 more horse power than 1990 Saab 9000. (135 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1990 Saab 9000. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 616 kg more than 1990 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, 1990 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 (700 Nm) has 528 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Saab 9000. (172 Nm). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Saab 9000.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1990 Saab 9000 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Saab |
| Model | SL | 9000 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1990 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5441 cc | 1985 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 493 HP | 135 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 700 Nm | 172 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.1:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1921 kg | 1305 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 54 L |
