2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK vs. 1986 Saab 9000
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Saab 9000. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Saab 9000 would be higher. At 1,985 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 Saab 9000 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK (161 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 1986 Saab 9000. (135 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK should accelerate faster than 1986 Saab 9000. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK weights approximately 256 kg more than 1986 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 CLK 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 CLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 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 CLK (240 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 68 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Saab 9000. (172 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Saab 9000.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK | 1986 Saab 9000 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Saab |
| Model | CLK | 9000 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1794 cc | 1985 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 161 HP | 135 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 172 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.1:1 |
| Top Speed | 230 km/hour | 192 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1540 kg | 1284 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2670 mm |
