1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1982 Saab 99
To start off, 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Saab 99. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Saab 99 would be higher. At 1,985 cc (4 cylinders), 1982 Saab 99 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata (112 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 1982 Saab 99. (85 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1982 Saab 99. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1982 Saab 99 weights approximately 115 kg more than 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Because 1999 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 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1982 Saab 99, 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, 1982 Saab 99 (147 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 23 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (124 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1982 Saab 99 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1982 Saab 99 | |
| Make | Mazda | Saab |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | 99 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1982 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1498 cc | 1985 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 112 HP | 85 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 124 Nm | 147 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1025 kg | 1140 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2480 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 60 L |
