2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1968 Saab Sonett
To start off, 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Saab Sonett. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Saab Sonett would be higher. At 1,840 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata (139 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 75 more horse power than 1968 Saab Sonett. (64 HP @ 4700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1968 Saab Sonett. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 365 kg more than 1968 Saab Sonett. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 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 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1968 Saab Sonett, 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 Mazda MX-5 Miata (168 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 53 more torque (in Nm) than 1968 Saab Sonett. (115 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1968 Saab Sonett.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1968 Saab Sonett | |
Make | Mazda | Saab |
Model | MX-5 Miata | Sonett |
Year Released | 2003 | 1968 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1840 cc | 1496 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 139 HP | 64 HP |
Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 4700 RPM |
Torque | 168 Nm | 115 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.5:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Top Speed | 205 km/hour | 161 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 775 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 3790 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1450 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1170 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2160 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 60 L |