2006 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 1988 Saab 9000
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 18 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 1,985 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Saab 9000 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Saab 9000 (136 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 2006 Mercedes-Benz A. (115 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 Saab 9000 should accelerate faster than 2006 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 385 kg more than 1988 Saab 9000.
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, 1988 Saab 9000 (172 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mercedes-Benz A. (155 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1988 Saab 9000 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mercedes-Benz A | 1988 Saab 9000 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Saab |
| Model | A | 9000 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1699 cc | 1985 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 136 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 155 Nm | 172 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.5 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.1:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 188 km/hour | 192 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1690 kg | 1305 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3840 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1600 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 54 L |
