1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2003 Saab 03-Sep
To start off, 2003 Saab 03-Sep is newer by 4 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 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Saab 03-Sep is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Saab 03-Sep (250 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 140 more horse power than 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (110 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Saab 03-Sep should accelerate faster than 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Saab 03-Sep weights approximately 627 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, 2003 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, 2003 Saab 03-Sep (370 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 236 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (134 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2003 Saab 03-Sep 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 | 2003 Saab 03-Sep | |
| Make | Mazda | Saab |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | 03-Sep |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 110 HP | 250 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 134 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 191 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1038 kg | 1665 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 61 L |
