1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2003 Saab 03-Sep
To start off, 2003 Saab 03-Sep is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata would be higher. At 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Saab 03-Sep is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Saab 03-Sep (202 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 86 more horse power than 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (116 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Saab 03-Sep should accelerate faster than 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Saab 03-Sep weights approximately 685 kg more than 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1989 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 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2003 Saab 03-Sep (280 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 143 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (137 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2003 Saab 03-Sep will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 2003 Saab 03-Sep | |
| Make | Mazda | Saab |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | 03-Sep |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 116 HP | 202 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 137 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 970 kg | 1655 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3950 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2680 mm |
