1978 Mazda 818 vs. 2009 Saab 03-Sep
To start off, 2009 Saab 03-Sep is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mazda 818. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mazda 818 would be higher. At 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Saab 03-Sep is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Saab 03-Sep (210 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 142 more horse power than 1978 Mazda 818. (68 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Saab 03-Sep should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda 818. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Saab 03-Sep weights approximately 574 kg more than 1978 Mazda 818. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Mazda 818 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 1978 Mazda 818. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2009 Saab 03-Sep (300 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 208 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda 818. (92 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Saab 03-Sep will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mazda 818.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Mazda 818 | 2009 Saab 03-Sep | |
| Make | Mazda | Saab |
| Model | 818 | 03-Sep |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1272 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 68 HP | 210 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 92 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1000 kg | 1574 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4650 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1600 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2320 mm | 2680 mm |
