1989 Mazda 323 vs. 1998 Saab 900i
To start off, 1998 Saab 900i is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 1,985 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Saab 900i is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Saab 900i (126 HP) has 52 more horse power than 1989 Mazda 323. (74 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Saab 900i should accelerate faster than 1989 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Saab 900i weights approximately 310 kg more than 1989 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1989 Mazda 323 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 1989 Mazda 323. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Saab 900i, 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, 1998 Saab 900i (170 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 66 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mazda 323. (104 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 1998 Saab 900i will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Mazda 323 | 1998 Saab 900i | |
| Make | Mazda | Saab |
| Model | 323 | 900i |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1324 cc | 1985 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 126 HP |
| Torque | 104 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 71 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 10.1:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 12.3 seconds | 11.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 985 kg | 1295 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4260 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 68 L |
