2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1991 Saab 9000
To start off, 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Saab 9000. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Saab 9000 would be higher. At 2,290 cc (4 cylinders), 1991 Saab 9000 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Saab 9000 (148 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (112 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1991 Saab 9000 should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Saab 9000 weights approximately 409 kg more than 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 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, 1991 Saab 9000, 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, 1991 Saab 9000 (212 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 88 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (124 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1991 Saab 9000 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1991 Saab 9000 | |
| Make | Mazda | Saab |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | 9000 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1991 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1498 cc | 2290 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 112 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 124 Nm | 212 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.1:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1025 kg | 1434 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2670 mm |
