1966 Saab 96 vs. 2012 Mazda 2
To start off, 2012 Mazda 2 is newer by 46 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 Saab 96. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 Saab 96 would be higher. At 1,498 cc (4 cylinders), 1966 Saab 96 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mazda 2 (75 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 1966 Saab 96. (64 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mazda 2 should accelerate faster than 1966 Saab 96. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mazda 2 weights approximately 157 kg more than 1966 Saab 96. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 Mazda 2 (119 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 3 more torque (in Nm) than 1966 Saab 96. (116 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2012 Mazda 2 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1966 Saab 96.
Compare all specifications:
| 1966 Saab 96 | 2012 Mazda 2 | |
| Make | Saab | Mazda |
| Model | 96 | 2 |
| Year Released | 1966 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1498 cc | 1349 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 64 HP | 75 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 116 Nm | 119 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 873 kg | 1030 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 3920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1695 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1475 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2489 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 38 L | 43 L |
