2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK vs. 1970 Saab 99

To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 39 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Saab 99. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Saab 99 would be higher. At 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK (355 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 269 more horse power than 1970 Saab 99. (86 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1970 Saab 99. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 170 kg more than 1970 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 SLK 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 SLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1970 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 SLK (510 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 380 more torque (in Nm) than 1970 Saab 99. (130 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1970 Saab 99.

Compare all specifications:

2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK 1970 Saab 99
Make Mercedes-Benz Saab
Model SLK 99
Year Released 2009 1970
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 5439 cc 1709 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 355 HP 86 HP
Engine RPM 5750 RPM 5500 RPM
Torque 510 Nm 130 Nm
Torque RPM 4000 RPM 3000 RPM
Fuel Type Diesel Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Number of Seats 2 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1240 kg 1070 kg
Vehicle Length 4110 mm 4380 mm
Vehicle Width 1800 mm 1700 mm
Vehicle Height 1290 mm 1450 mm
Wheelbase Size 2440 mm 2480 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 70 L 54 L