1993 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1970 Saab 99
To start off, 1993 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Saab 99. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Saab 99 would be higher. At 1,709 cc (4 cylinders), 1970 Saab 99 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1993 Mazda MX-5 Miata (116 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1970 Saab 99. (86 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1993 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1970 Saab 99. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1970 Saab 99 weights approximately 115 kg more than 1993 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Because 1993 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 1993 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1970 Saab 99, 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, 1993 Mazda MX-5 Miata (131 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 1 more torque (in Nm) than 1970 Saab 99. (130 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1993 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1970 Saab 99.
Compare all specifications:
| 1993 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1970 Saab 99 | |
| Make | Mazda | Saab |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | 99 |
| Year Released | 1993 | 1970 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1709 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 116 HP | 86 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 131 Nm | 130 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 955 kg | 1070 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2480 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 54 L |
