1988 Mazda 323 vs. 1989 Saab 9000
To start off, 1989 Saab 9000 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 2,290 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Saab 9000 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Saab 9000 (150 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 84 more horse power than 1988 Mazda 323. (66 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Saab 9000 should accelerate faster than 1988 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Saab 9000 weights approximately 455 kg more than 1988 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1989 Saab 9000 (216 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 115 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Mazda 323. (101 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1989 Saab 9000 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Mazda 323 | 1989 Saab 9000 | |
| Make | Mazda | Saab |
| Model | 323 | 9000 |
| Year Released | 1988 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1324 cc | 2290 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 66 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 101 Nm | 216 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 870 kg | 1325 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1480 mm | 1770 mm |
