2006 Mazda 3 vs. 2001 Saab 05-Sep
To start off, 2006 Mazda 3 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Saab 05-Sep. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Saab 05-Sep would be higher. At 1,983 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Saab 05-Sep is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Saab 05-Sep (173 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 68 more horse power than 2006 Mazda 3. (105 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Saab 05-Sep should accelerate faster than 2006 Mazda 3.
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, 2001 Saab 05-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, 2001 Saab 05-Sep (350 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 204 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda 3. (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2001 Saab 05-Sep will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda 3. 2001 Saab 05-Sep has automatic transmission and 2006 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2006 Mazda 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Saab 05-Sep will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mazda 3 | 2001 Saab 05-Sep | |
| Make | Mazda | Saab |
| Model | 3 | 05-Sep |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 105 HP | 173 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 75 L |
