2005 Mazda 3 vs. 1986 Saab 900
To start off, 2005 Mazda 3 is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Saab 900. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Saab 900 would be higher. At 1,996 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mazda 3 (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 1986 Saab 900. (100 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1986 Saab 900. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Saab 900 weights approximately 150 kg more than 2005 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, 2005 Mazda 3 (187 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Saab 900. (162 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2005 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Saab 900.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mazda 3 | 1986 Saab 900 | |
| Make | Mazda | Saab |
| Model | 3 | 900 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1986 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1996 cc | 1985 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 187 Nm | 162 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1030 kg | 1180 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2530 mm |
