1977 Mazda 323 vs. 1998 Saab 03-Sep
To start off, 1998 Saab 03-Sep is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 1,985 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Saab 03-Sep is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Saab 03-Sep (152 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 108 more horse power than 1977 Mazda 323. (44 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Saab 03-Sep should accelerate faster than 1977 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Saab 03-Sep weights approximately 528 kg more than 1977 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1977 Mazda 323 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 1977 Mazda 323. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 1998 Saab 03-Sep (219 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 150 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Mazda 323. (69 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1998 Saab 03-Sep will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 Mazda 323 | 1998 Saab 03-Sep | |
| Make | Mazda | Saab |
| Model | 323 | 03-Sep |
| Year Released | 1977 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 983 cc | 1985 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 44 HP | 152 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 69 Nm | 219 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 812 kg | 1340 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3830 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1600 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2320 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 75 L |
