2009 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1983 Saab 99
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Saab 99. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Saab 99 would be higher. At 6,208 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL (518 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 433 more horse power than 1983 Saab 99. (85 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1983 Saab 99. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 100 kg more than 1983 Saab 99. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1983 Saab 99, 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 SL (630 Nm @ 5200 RPM) has 483 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Saab 99. (147 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Saab 99.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1983 Saab 99 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Saab |
| Model | SL | 99 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1983 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 6208 cc | 1985 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 518 HP | 85 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6800 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 630 Nm | 147 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5200 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1240 kg | 1140 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1480 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1600 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2480 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 60 L |
