1998 Mazda 323 vs. 2005 Saab 03-Sep
To start off, 2005 Saab 03-Sep is newer by 7 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 2,171 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Saab 03-Sep is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Saab 03-Sep (118 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 323. (114 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Saab 03-Sep should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Saab 03-Sep weights approximately 442 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, 2005 Saab 03-Sep (280 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 118 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 323. (162 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2005 Saab 03-Sep will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda 323. 1998 Mazda 323 has automatic transmission and 2005 Saab 03-Sep has manual transmission. 2005 Saab 03-Sep will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Mazda 323 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mazda 323 | 2005 Saab 03-Sep | |
| Make | Mazda | Saab |
| Model | 323 | 03-Sep |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1840 cc | 2171 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 162 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 84.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 98 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 18.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1128 kg | 1570 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 58 L |
