2006 Mazda 3 vs. 2003 Saab 03-Sep
To start off, 2006 Mazda 3 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Saab 03-Sep. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Saab 03-Sep would be higher. At 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 148 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Saab 03-Sep weights approximately 345 kg more than 2006 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, 2003 Saab 03-Sep (240 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 53 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda 3. (187 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2003 Saab 03-Sep will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mazda 3 | 2003 Saab 03-Sep | |
| Make | Mazda | Saab |
| Model | 3 | 03-Sep |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 1983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 187 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1310 kg | 1655 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 61 L |
