1989 Mazda 323 vs. 2004 Saab 03-Sep
To start off, 2004 Saab 03-Sep is newer by 15 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 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Saab 03-Sep is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Saab 03-Sep (173 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 98 more horse power than 1989 Mazda 323. (75 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Saab 03-Sep should accelerate faster than 1989 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Saab 03-Sep weights approximately 555 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.
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, 2004 Saab 03-Sep (350 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 247 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mazda 323. (103 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2004 Saab 03-Sep will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mazda 323. 2004 Saab 03-Sep has automatic transmission and 1989 Mazda 323 has manual transmission. 1989 Mazda 323 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Saab 03-Sep will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Mazda 323 | 2004 Saab 03-Sep | |
| Make | Mazda | Saab |
| Model | 323 | 03-Sep |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1324 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 75 HP | 173 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 103 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 71.1 mm | 86.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 12 seconds | 8.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 955 kg | 1510 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 61 L |
