1973 Mazda RX-3 vs. 2005 Saab 03-Sep
To start off, 2005 Saab 03-Sep is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Mazda RX-3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Mazda RX-3 would be higher. At 1,964 cc, 1973 Mazda RX-3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Saab 03-Sep (149 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 1973 Mazda RX-3. (100 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Saab 03-Sep should accelerate faster than 1973 Mazda RX-3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Saab 03-Sep weights approximately 678 kg more than 1973 Mazda RX-3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 Mazda RX-3 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 1973 Mazda RX-3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2005 Saab 03-Sep (315 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 180 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Mazda RX-3. (135 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2005 Saab 03-Sep will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Mazda RX-3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Mazda RX-3 | 2005 Saab 03-Sep | |
| Make | Mazda | Saab |
| Model | RX-3 | 03-Sep |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1964 cc | 1910 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 149 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 135 Nm | 315 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 852 kg | 1530 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1600 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2320 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 61 L |
