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 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz E (470 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 295 more horse power than 1988 Saab 9000. (175 HP @ 5300 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 657 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 (700 Nm @ 2650 RPM) has 422 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Saab 9000. (278 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 | 5439 cc | 1985 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 470 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 700 Nm | 278 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2650 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 211 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1990 kg | 1333 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4880 mm | 4780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2670 mm |
