2003 Saab 03-Sep vs. 2012 Toyota Highlander
To start off, 2012 Toyota Highlander is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Saab 03-Sep. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Saab 03-Sep would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Toyota Highlander is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Toyota Highlander (270 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 2003 Saab 03-Sep. (250 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Toyota Highlander should accelerate faster than 2003 Saab 03-Sep. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Toyota Highlander weights approximately 265 kg more than 2003 Saab 03-Sep. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 Saab 03-Sep (370 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 34 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Toyota Highlander. (336 Nm @ 4700 RPM). This means 2003 Saab 03-Sep will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Toyota Highlander. 2012 Toyota Highlander has automatic transmission and 2003 Saab 03-Sep has manual transmission. 2003 Saab 03-Sep will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Toyota Highlander will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Saab 03-Sep | 2012 Toyota Highlander | |
| Make | Saab | Toyota |
| Model | 03-Sep | Highlander |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 250 HP | 270 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 370 Nm | 336 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1665 kg | 1930 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 4785 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1760 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2789 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 73 L |
