2006 Mazda 3 vs. 1991 Saab 9000
To start off, 2006 Mazda 3 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Saab 9000. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Saab 9000 would be higher. At 2,290 cc (4 cylinders), 1991 Saab 9000 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Saab 9000 (200 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 61 more horse power than 2006 Mazda 3. (139 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1991 Saab 9000 should accelerate faster than 2006 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Saab 9000 weights approximately 330 kg more than 2006 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 Mazda 3 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 2006 Mazda 3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1991 Saab 9000, 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, 1991 Saab 9000 (323 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 141 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda 3. (182 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1991 Saab 9000 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mazda 3 | 1991 Saab 9000 | |
| Make | Mazda | Saab |
| Model | 3 | 9000 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1991 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 2290 cc |
| Horse Power | 139 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 182 Nm | 323 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 90 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1134 kg | 1464 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 66 L |
