1968 Mazda R-100 vs. 1987 Saab 900
To start off, 1987 Saab 900 is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Mazda R-100. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Mazda R-100 would be higher. At 1,985 cc (4 cylinders), 1987 Saab 900 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1987 Saab 900 (175 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 1968 Mazda R-100. (110 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1987 Saab 900 should accelerate faster than 1968 Mazda R-100. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 Saab 900 weights approximately 480 kg more than 1968 Mazda R-100. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1968 Mazda R-100 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 1968 Mazda R-100. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1987 Saab 900, 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, 1987 Saab 900 (273 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 138 more torque (in Nm) than 1968 Mazda R-100. (135 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1987 Saab 900 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1968 Mazda R-100.
Compare all specifications:
| 1968 Mazda R-100 | 1987 Saab 900 | |
| Make | Mazda | Saab |
| Model | R-100 | 900 |
| Year Released | 1968 | 1987 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1963 cc | 1985 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 110 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 135 Nm | 273 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 180 km/hour | 203 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 805 kg | 1285 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3840 mm | 4950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2720 mm |
