1998 Mazda 323 vs. 2003 Saab 03-Sep
To start off, 2003 Saab 03-Sep is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Saab 03-Sep is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Saab 03-Sep (250 HP) has 176 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 323. (74 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Saab 03-Sep should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Saab 03-Sep weights approximately 595 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, 2003 Saab 03-Sep (370 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 261 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 323. (109 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Saab 03-Sep will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mazda 323 | 2003 Saab 03-Sep | |
| Make | Mazda | Saab |
| Model | 323 | 03-Sep |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1324 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 250 HP |
| Torque | 109 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 71 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1070 kg | 1665 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 61 L |
