1988 Saab 9000 vs. 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Saab 9000. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Saab 9000 would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Saab 9000 (204 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (167 HP @ 7000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 Saab 9000 should accelerate faster than 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Saab 9000 weights approximately 181 kg more than 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata 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 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Saab 9000, 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, 1988 Saab 9000 (290 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (190 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1988 Saab 9000 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
1988 Saab 9000 | 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
Make | Saab | Mazda |
Model | 9000 | MX-5 Miata |
Year Released | 1988 | 2012 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1985 cc | 2000 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 204 HP | 167 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 7000 RPM |
Torque | 290 Nm | 190 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1320 kg | 1139 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 3995 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1720 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1245 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2329 mm |