1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2012 Saab 03-Sep
To start off, 2012 Saab 03-Sep is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Saab 03-Sep is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Saab 03-Sep (180 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 91 more horse power than 1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (89 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Saab 03-Sep should accelerate faster than 1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Because 1997 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 1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 2012 Saab 03-Sep (400 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 271 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (129 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Saab 03-Sep will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 2012 Saab 03-Sep | |
| Make | Mazda | Saab |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | 03-Sep |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 180 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 129 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78.1 mm | 90.4 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 82 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
