1996 Toyota MR2 vs. 2008 Saab 03-Sep
To start off, 2008 Saab 03-Sep is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Toyota MR2. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Toyota MR2 would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Toyota MR2 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Toyota MR2 (173 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 2008 Saab 03-Sep. (120 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Toyota MR2 should accelerate faster than 2008 Saab 03-Sep. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Saab 03-Sep weights approximately 275 kg more than 1996 Toyota MR2.
Because 1996 Toyota MR2 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 1996 Toyota MR2. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 1996 Toyota MR2 (186 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 19 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Saab 03-Sep. (167 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1996 Toyota MR2 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Saab 03-Sep. 2008 Saab 03-Sep has automatic transmission and 1996 Toyota MR2 has manual transmission. 1996 Toyota MR2 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Saab 03-Sep will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Toyota MR2 | 2008 Saab 03-Sep | |
| Make | Toyota | Saab |
| Model | MR2 | 03-Sep |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1795 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 173 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 186 Nm | 167 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.1 mm | 80.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 88.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.4:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1235 kg | 1510 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4190 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 61 L |
