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 (161 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 11 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 200 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 (241 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Saab 9000. (216 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 |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 161 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 241 Nm | 216 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 228 km/hour | 199 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1525 kg | 1325 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 38 L |
