2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1999 Saab 03-Sep
To start off, 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Saab 03-Sep. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Saab 03-Sep would be higher. At 2,290 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Saab 03-Sep is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Saab 03-Sep (225 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (178 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Saab 03-Sep should accelerate faster than 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Saab 03-Sep weights approximately 251 kg more than 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 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 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 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, 1999 Saab 03-Sep (342 Nm) has 122 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (220 Nm). This means 1999 Saab 03-Sep will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1999 Saab 03-Sep | |
| Make | Mazda | Saab |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | 03-Sep |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1835 cc | 2290 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 178 HP | 225 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 342 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 9.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1147 kg | 1398 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4650 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 48 L | 68 L |
