2012 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2001 Saab 03-Sep
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Saab 03-Sep. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Saab 03-Sep would be higher. At 3,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz S (240 HP @ 3600 RPM) has 92 more horse power than 2001 Saab 03-Sep. (148 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2001 Saab 03-Sep. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 830 kg more than 2001 Saab 03-Sep. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 Mercedes-Benz S is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2001 Saab 03-Sep. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz S will offer significantly more control. 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz S (616 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 376 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Saab 03-Sep. (240 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Saab 03-Sep.
Compare all specifications:
| 2012 Mercedes-Benz S | 2001 Saab 03-Sep | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Saab |
| Model | S | 03-Sep |
| Year Released | 2012 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3000 cc | 1983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 616 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | AWD | Front |
| Transmission Type | 7-speed shiftable automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 2170 kg | 1340 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5245 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1872 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1473 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3165 mm | 2610 mm |
