1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1999 Saab 03-Sep
To start off, 1999 Saab 03-Sep is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata would be higher. At 2,171 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Saab 03-Sep is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata (138 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1999 Saab 03-Sep. (123 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1999 Saab 03-Sep. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Saab 03-Sep weights approximately 505 kg more than 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Because 1998 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 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 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, 1999 Saab 03-Sep (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 118 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (162 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1999 Saab 03-Sep will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1999 Saab 03-Sep | |
| Make | Mazda | Saab |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | 03-Sep |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1839 cc | 2171 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 162 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1025 kg | 1530 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 68 L |
