2006 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 1980 Saab 900
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 26 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 1,991 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz A (108 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 1980 Saab 900. (100 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1980 Saab 900. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 515 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.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz A (250 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 87 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Saab 900. (163 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Saab 900.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mercedes-Benz A | 1980 Saab 900 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Saab |
| Model | A | 900 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 1985 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 163 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 78 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1695 kg | 1180 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3840 mm | 4750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1600 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2530 mm |
