2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS vs. 1979 Saab 900
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Saab 900. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Saab 900 would be higher. At 5,461 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS (377 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 234 more horse power than 1979 Saab 900. (143 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS should accelerate faster than 1979 Saab 900. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS weights approximately 585 kg more than 1979 Saab 900. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS 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 CLS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1979 Saab 900, 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 CLS (392 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 156 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Saab 900. (236 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Saab 900. 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS has automatic transmission and 1979 Saab 900 has manual transmission. 1979 Saab 900 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS | 1979 Saab 900 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Saab |
| Model | CLS | 900 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5461 cc | 1985 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 377 HP | 143 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 392 Nm | 236 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 191 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1835 kg | 1250 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 4750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2530 mm |
