2001 Saab 03-Sep vs. 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Saab 03-Sep. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Saab 03-Sep would be higher. At 2,290 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Saab 03-Sep is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Saab 03-Sep (227 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (167 HP @ 7000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Saab 03-Sep should accelerate faster than 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Because 2012 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 2012 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 (350 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 160 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (190 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2001 Saab 03-Sep will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Saab 03-Sep | 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Saab | Mazda |
| Model | 03-Sep | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2290 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 227 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 3995 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1245 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2329 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 48 L |
