2002 Saab 03-Sep vs. 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Saab 03-Sep. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Saab 03-Sep would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Saab 03-Sep (173 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (167 HP @ 7000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Saab 03-Sep should accelerate faster than 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Saab 03-Sep weights approximately 371 kg more than 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 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 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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, 2002 Saab 03-Sep (280 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (190 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2002 Saab 03-Sep will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata has automatic transmission and 2002 Saab 03-Sep has manual transmission. 2002 Saab 03-Sep will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Saab 03-Sep | 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Saab | Mazda |
| Model | 03-Sep | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 173 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1510 kg | 1139 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 3995 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1245 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2329 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 48 L |
