2008 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1988 Saab 9000
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 20 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 2,987 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C (221 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 85 more horse power than 1988 Saab 9000. (136 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1988 Saab 9000. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 350 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 2008 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 2008 Mercedes-Benz C. 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C (510 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 338 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Saab 9000. (172 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Saab 9000. 2008 Mercedes-Benz C 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. 2008 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz C | 1988 Saab 9000 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Saab |
| Model | C | 9000 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2987 cc | 1985 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 221 HP | 136 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 510 Nm | 172 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 10.1:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 246 km/hour | 192 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1655 kg | 1305 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 54 L |
