1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2001 Saab 03-Sep
To start off, 2001 Saab 03-Sep is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata would be higher. At 1,985 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Saab 03-Sep is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Saab 03-Sep (203 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (138 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Saab 03-Sep should accelerate faster than 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Saab 03-Sep weights approximately 370 kg more than 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2001 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, 2001 Saab 03-Sep (280 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 118 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (162 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2001 Saab 03-Sep will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 2001 Saab 03-Sep has automatic transmission and 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata has manual transmission. 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Saab 03-Sep will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 2001 Saab 03-Sep | |
| Make | Mazda | Saab |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | 03-Sep |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1840 cc | 1985 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 203 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 162 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1025 kg | 1395 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 75 L |
