2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK vs. 1988 Saab 9000
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK (355 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 180 more horse power than 1988 Saab 9000. (175 HP @ 5300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1988 Saab 9000. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Saab 9000 weights approximately 93 kg more than 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK.
Because 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 SLK. 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 SLK (510 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 232 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Saab 9000. (278 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Saab 9000. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 SLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK | 1988 Saab 9000 | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Saab |
Model | SLK | 9000 |
Year Released | 2008 | 1988 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 5439 cc | 1985 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 355 HP | 175 HP |
Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5300 RPM |
Torque | 510 Nm | 278 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1240 kg | 1333 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 4780 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1430 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2670 mm |