2008 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1974 Saab 99
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Saab 99. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Saab 99 would be higher. At 5,513 cc (12 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL (510 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 416 more horse power than 1974 Saab 99. (94 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1974 Saab 99. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 900 kg more than 1974 Saab 99. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1974 Saab 99, 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 SL (830 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 668 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Saab 99. (162 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Saab 99.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1974 Saab 99 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Saab |
| Model | SL | 99 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5513 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 510 HP | 94 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 830 Nm | 162 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 87 mm | 78 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 2045 kg | 1145 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2480 mm |
