2008 Mercedes-Benz GL vs. 1980 Saab 900
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL 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 5,459 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL (383 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 265 more horse power than 1980 Saab 900. (118 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL should accelerate faster than 1980 Saab 900. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL weights approximately 1243 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.
Because 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1980 Saab 900. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL will offer significantly more control. 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 GL (530 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 363 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Saab 900. (167 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Saab 900. 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL has automatic transmission and 1980 Saab 900 has manual transmission. 1980 Saab 900 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL | 1980 Saab 900 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Saab |
| Model | GL | 900 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5459 cc | 1985 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 383 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 530 Nm | 167 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 98 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.5 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.7:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Top Speed | 240 km/hour | 167 km/hour |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2445 kg | 1202 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5090 mm | 4950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1930 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1850 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3080 mm | 2720 mm |
