2008 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1980 Saab 900
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL (511 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 411 more horse power than 1980 Saab 900. (100 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1980 Saab 900. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 780 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 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, 1980 Saab 900, 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 (720 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 557 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Saab 900. (163 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Saab 900.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1980 Saab 900 | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Saab |
Model | SL | 900 |
Year Released | 2008 | 1980 |
Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 5439 cc | 1985 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 511 HP | 100 HP |
Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Torque | 720 Nm | 163 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 90 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 78 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1960 kg | 1180 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4750 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1700 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1430 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2530 mm |