2006 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 1988 Saab 9000
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz E 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 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz E (302 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 98 more horse power than 1988 Saab 9000. (204 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1988 Saab 9000. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 545 kg more than 1988 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 E 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 E. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 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 E (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 170 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Saab 9000. (290 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Saab 9000. 2006 Mercedes-Benz E has automatic transmission and 1988 Saab 9000 has manual transmission. 1988 Saab 9000 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Mercedes-Benz E will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mercedes-Benz E | 1988 Saab 9000 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Saab |
| Model | E | 9000 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4966 cc | 1985 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 302 HP | 204 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 460 Nm | 290 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 90.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1865 kg | 1320 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2670 mm |
