1958 Austin-Healey Sprite vs. 2006 Saab 03-Sep
To start off, 2006 Saab 03-Sep is newer by 48 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1958 Austin-Healey Sprite. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1958 Austin-Healey Sprite would be higher. At 2,792 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Saab 03-Sep is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Saab 03-Sep (271 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 227 more horse power than 1958 Austin-Healey Sprite. (44 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Saab 03-Sep should accelerate faster than 1958 Austin-Healey Sprite. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Saab 03-Sep weights approximately 941 kg more than 1958 Austin-Healey Sprite. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1958 Austin-Healey Sprite 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 1958 Austin-Healey Sprite. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Saab 03-Sep, 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, 2006 Saab 03-Sep (401 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 330 more torque (in Nm) than 1958 Austin-Healey Sprite. (71 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 Saab 03-Sep will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1958 Austin-Healey Sprite. 2006 Saab 03-Sep has automatic transmission and 1958 Austin-Healey Sprite has manual transmission. 1958 Austin-Healey Sprite will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Saab 03-Sep will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1958 Austin-Healey Sprite | 2006 Saab 03-Sep | |
| Make | Austin-Healey | Saab |
| Model | Sprite | 03-Sep |
| Year Released | 1958 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 948 cc | 2792 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 44 HP | 271 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 71 Nm | 401 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Top Speed | 124 km/hour | 260 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 664 kg | 1605 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3500 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1350 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 27 L | 58 L |
