2003 Mazda Roadster vs. 2012 Saab 03-Sep
To start off, 2012 Saab 03-Sep is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mazda Roadster. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mazda Roadster would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Saab 03-Sep is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Saab 03-Sep (220 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 97 more horse power than 2003 Mazda Roadster. (123 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Saab 03-Sep should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda Roadster. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Saab 03-Sep weights approximately 510 kg more than 2003 Mazda Roadster. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Mazda Roadster 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 Roadster. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 2012 Saab 03-Sep (349 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 207 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda Roadster. (142 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2012 Saab 03-Sep will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda Roadster. 2012 Saab 03-Sep has automatic transmission and 2003 Mazda Roadster has manual transmission. 2003 Mazda Roadster will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Saab 03-Sep will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mazda Roadster | 2012 Saab 03-Sep | |
| Make | Mazda | Saab |
| Model | Roadster | 03-Sep |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 220 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 142 Nm | 349 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1030 kg | 1540 kg |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 48 L | 61 L |
