1988 Nissan 300 ZX vs. 2012 Saab 03-Sep
To start off, 2012 Saab 03-Sep is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Nissan 300 ZX. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Nissan 300 ZX would be higher. At 2,960 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 Nissan 300 ZX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Saab 03-Sep (220 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 1988 Nissan 300 ZX. (171 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Saab 03-Sep should accelerate faster than 1988 Nissan 300 ZX. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Saab 03-Sep weights approximately 80 kg more than 1988 Nissan 300 ZX. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1988 Nissan 300 ZX 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 1988 Nissan 300 ZX. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 2012 Saab 03-Sep (349 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 115 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Nissan 300 ZX. (234 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2012 Saab 03-Sep will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Nissan 300 ZX.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Nissan 300 ZX | 2012 Saab 03-Sep | |
| Make | Nissan | Saab |
| Model | 300 ZX | 03-Sep |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2960 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 171 HP | 220 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 234 Nm | 349 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Flex Fuel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1460 kg | 1540 kg |
