2004 Saab 03-Sep vs. 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Saab 03-Sep. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Saab 03-Sep would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata (167 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 2004 Saab 03-Sep. (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 2004 Saab 03-Sep. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Saab 03-Sep weights approximately 521 kg more than 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Because 2012 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 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2004 Saab 03-Sep (315 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 125 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (190 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2004 Saab 03-Sep will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Saab 03-Sep | 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Saab | Mazda |
| Model | 03-Sep | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1910 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 315 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1660 kg | 1139 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 3995 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1245 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2329 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 48 L |
