2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1990 Saab 900
To start off, 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Saab 900. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Saab 900 would be higher. At 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata (166 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 1990 Saab 900. (158 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1990 Saab 900. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 Saab 900 weights approximately 148 kg more than 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Because 2007 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 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1990 Saab 900, 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, 1990 Saab 900 (255 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 64 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (191 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1990 Saab 900 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1990 Saab 900 | |
| Make | Mazda | Saab |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | 900 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1990 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 166 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6700 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 191 Nm | 255 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1202 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2530 mm |
