2009 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1989 Saab 9000
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Saab 9000. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Saab 9000 would be higher. At 2,290 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Saab 9000 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C (181 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 31 more horse power than 1989 Saab 9000. (150 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1989 Saab 9000. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 40 kg more than 1989 Saab 9000. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 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 2009 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C (250 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 38 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Saab 9000. (212 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Saab 9000.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mercedes-Benz C | 1989 Saab 9000 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Saab |
| Model | C | 9000 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 2290 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 181 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 212 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.5:1 | 10.1:1 |
| Top Speed | 235 km/hour | 203 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1450 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2670 mm |
