1989 Saab 9000 vs. 2011 Mazda 3
To start off, 2011 Mazda 3 is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Saab 9000. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Saab 9000 would be higher. At 2,500 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mazda 3 (167 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 1989 Saab 9000. (150 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1989 Saab 9000. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Saab 9000 weights approximately 60 kg more than 2011 Mazda 3.
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, 2011 Mazda 3 (228 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Saab 9000. (212 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2011 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Saab 9000.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Saab 9000 | 2011 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Saab | Mazda |
| Model | 9000 | 3 |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2290 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 212 Nm | 228 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1450 kg | 1390 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4506 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2639 mm |
