1998 Mazda 323 vs. 1981 Saab 900
To start off, 1998 Mazda 323 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Saab 900. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Saab 900 would be higher. At 1,985 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Saab 900 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Saab 900 (100 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 323. (88 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Saab 900 should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Saab 900 weights approximately 95 kg more than 1998 Mazda 323. 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, 1981 Saab 900 (162 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 29 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 323. (133 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1981 Saab 900 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mazda 323 | 1981 Saab 900 | |
| Make | Mazda | Saab |
| Model | 323 | 900 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1496 cc | 1985 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 88 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 133 Nm | 162 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.4 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1085 kg | 1180 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2530 mm |
