2008 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 1980 Saab 900
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 28 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 2,034 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz A (190 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 72 more horse power than 1980 Saab 900. (118 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1980 Saab 900. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 103 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.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz A (281 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 114 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Saab 900. (167 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Saab 900.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz A | 1980 Saab 900 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Saab |
| Model | A | 900 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2034 cc | 1985 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 281 Nm | 167 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 78 mm |
| Top Speed | 228 km/hour | 167 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1305 kg | 1202 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3840 mm | 4950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1600 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2720 mm |
