1997 Mazda 121 vs. 2003 Saab 05-Sep
To start off, 2003 Saab 05-Sep is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mazda 121. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mazda 121 would be higher. At 1,983 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Saab 05-Sep is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Saab 05-Sep (148 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 1997 Mazda 121. (74 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Saab 05-Sep should accelerate faster than 1997 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Saab 05-Sep weights approximately 497 kg more than 1997 Mazda 121. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2003 Saab 05-Sep (240 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 129 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mazda 121. (111 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Saab 05-Sep will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Mazda 121 | 2003 Saab 05-Sep | |
| Make | Mazda | Saab |
| Model | 121 | 05-Sep |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1242 cc | 1983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 111 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 71 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 86 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 991 kg | 1488 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3830 mm | 4820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2710 mm |
