2005 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren vs. 1981 Saab 900
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Saab 900. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Saab 900 would be higher. At 5,506 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren (618 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 518 more horse power than 1981 Saab 900. (100 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren should accelerate faster than 1981 Saab 900. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren weights approximately 550 kg more than 1981 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 SLR McLaren 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 SLR McLaren. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 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 SLR McLaren (780 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 618 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Saab 900. (162 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Saab 900.
Compare all specifications:
2005 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren | 1981 Saab 900 | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Saab |
Model | SLR McLaren | 900 |
Year Released | 2005 | 1981 |
Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 5506 cc | 1985 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 618 HP | 100 HP |
Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Torque | 780 Nm | 162 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 90 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 78 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 9.2:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1730 kg | 1180 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4660 mm | 4750 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1700 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1430 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2530 mm |