1985 Mazda RX-7 vs. 2003 Saab 03-Sep
To start off, 2003 Saab 03-Sep is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Mazda RX-7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Mazda RX-7 would be higher. At 2,292 cc, 1985 Mazda RX-7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Saab 03-Sep (173 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 1985 Mazda RX-7. (165 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Saab 03-Sep should accelerate faster than 1985 Mazda RX-7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Saab 03-Sep weights approximately 730 kg more than 1985 Mazda RX-7. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1985 Mazda RX-7 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 1985 Mazda RX-7. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2003 Saab 03-Sep (265 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Mazda RX-7. (225 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Saab 03-Sep will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Mazda RX-7. 2003 Saab 03-Sep has automatic transmission and 1985 Mazda RX-7 has manual transmission. 1985 Mazda RX-7 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Saab 03-Sep will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Mazda RX-7 | 2003 Saab 03-Sep | |
| Make | Mazda | Saab |
| Model | RX-7 | 03-Sep |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2292 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 165 HP | 173 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 225 Nm | 265 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 912 kg | 1642 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2680 mm |
