2006 Mercedes-Benz CLS vs. 1989 Saab 9000
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLS 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 3,495 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLS (268 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 1989 Saab 9000. (226 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLS should accelerate faster than 1989 Saab 9000. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLS weights approximately 270 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 CLS 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 CLS. 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, 1989 Saab 9000 (351 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 1 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLS. (350 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1989 Saab 9000 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLS. 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLS has automatic transmission and 1989 Saab 9000 has manual transmission. 1989 Saab 9000 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLS | 1989 Saab 9000 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Saab |
| Model | CLS | 9000 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3495 cc | 2290 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 268 HP | 226 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 351 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92.9 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 90 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1730 kg | 1460 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 89 L | 66 L |
