2009 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1982 Saab 900
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Saab 900. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Saab 900 would be higher. At 5,461 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz S (383 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 283 more horse power than 1982 Saab 900. (100 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1982 Saab 900. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 145 kg more than 1982 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 S 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 S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1982 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 S (530 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 368 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Saab 900. (162 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Saab 900.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mercedes-Benz S | 1982 Saab 900 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Saab |
| Model | S | 900 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1982 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5461 cc | 1985 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 383 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 530 Nm | 162 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.7:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1325 kg | 1180 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5210 mm | 4750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3170 mm | 2530 mm |
