1998 Mazda 323 vs. 1989 Saab 900
To start off, 1998 Mazda 323 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Saab 900. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Saab 900 would be higher. At 1,985 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Saab 900 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mazda 323 (114 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 1989 Saab 900. (100 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mazda 323 should accelerate faster than 1989 Saab 900. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Saab 900 weights approximately 65 kg more than 1998 Mazda 323.
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, both vehicles can yield 162 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mazda 323 | 1989 Saab 900 | |
| Make | Mazda | Saab |
| Model | 323 | 900 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1840 cc | 1985 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 162 Nm | 162 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 90.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1115 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 |
