1989 Saab 900 vs. 2013 Mazda 3
To start off, 2013 Mazda 3 is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Saab 900. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Saab 900 would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2013 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Saab 900 (185 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 2013 Mazda 3. (155 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Saab 900 should accelerate faster than 2013 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Mazda 3 weights approximately 13 kg more than 1989 Saab 900.
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, 1989 Saab 900 (273 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 73 more torque (in Nm) than 2013 Mazda 3. (200 Nm @ 4100 RPM). This means 1989 Saab 900 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2013 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Saab 900 | 2013 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Saab | Mazda |
| Model | 900 | 3 |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2013 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 185 HP | 155 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 273 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 90 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78 mm | 91 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 12.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1290 kg | 1303 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4950 mm | 4595 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2640 mm |
