2006 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1989 Saab 9000
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Saab 9000. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Saab 9000 would be higher. At 2,496 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C (201 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 66 more horse power than 1989 Saab 9000. (135 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1989 Saab 9000. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 225 kg more than 1989 Saab 9000. 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, 1989 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C (245 Nm @ 2900 RPM) has 73 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Saab 9000. (172 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Saab 9000.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mercedes-Benz C | 1989 Saab 9000 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Saab |
| Model | C | 9000 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2496 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 135 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 172 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2900 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 68.4 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.2:1 | 10.1:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 245 km/hour | 192 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1530 kg | 1305 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 54 L |
