2004 Mazda 3 vs. 2012 Saab 05-Sep
To start off, 2012 Saab 05-Sep is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Mazda 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Mazda 3 would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Saab 05-Sep is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Saab 05-Sep (220 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 121 more horse power than 2004 Mazda 3. (99 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Saab 05-Sep should accelerate faster than 2004 Mazda 3.
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, 2012 Saab 05-Sep (349 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 204 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mazda 3. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Saab 05-Sep will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mazda 3. 2012 Saab 05-Sep has automatic transmission and 2004 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2004 Mazda 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Saab 05-Sep will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mazda 3 | 2012 Saab 05-Sep | |
| Make | Mazda | Saab |
| Model | 3 | 05-Sep |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 99 HP | 220 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 349 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 5009 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1862 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1468 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2837 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |
