2006 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1980 Saab 900
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C 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 1,985 cc (4 cylinders), 1980 Saab 900 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C (161 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 43 more horse power than 1980 Saab 900. (118 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1980 Saab 900. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 583 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.
Because 2006 Mercedes-Benz C 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 2006 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C (240 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 73 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Saab 900. (167 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Saab 900. 2006 Mercedes-Benz C has automatic transmission and 1980 Saab 900 has manual transmission. 1980 Saab 900 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mercedes-Benz C | 1980 Saab 900 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Saab |
| Model | C | 900 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1795 cc | 1985 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 161 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 167 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Top Speed | 231 km/hour | 167 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1785 kg | 1202 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 4950 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2720 mm |
