2009 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 2003 Saab 05-Sep
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Saab 05-Sep. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Saab 05-Sep would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Saab 05-Sep is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C (181 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 2003 Saab 05-Sep. (148 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 2003 Saab 05-Sep. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Saab 05-Sep weights approximately 260 kg more than 2009 Mercedes-Benz C.
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, 2003 Saab 05-Sep, 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, both vehicles can yield 240 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C has automatic transmission and 2003 Saab 05-Sep has manual transmission. 2003 Saab 05-Sep will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mercedes-Benz C | 2003 Saab 05-Sep | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Saab |
| Model | C | 05-Sep |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1998 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 181 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 1485 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1450 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1780 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 75 L |
