2008 Mazda 3 vs. 2001 Saab 03-Sep
To start off, 2008 Mazda 3 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Saab 03-Sep. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Saab 03-Sep would be higher. At 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Saab 03-Sep (203 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 2008 Mazda 3. (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Saab 03-Sep should accelerate faster than 2008 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Saab 03-Sep weights approximately 85 kg more than 2008 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2001 Saab 03-Sep (280 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 93 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda 3. (187 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2001 Saab 03-Sep will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mazda 3. 2001 Saab 03-Sep has automatic transmission and 2008 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2008 Mazda 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Saab 03-Sep will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda 3 | 2001 Saab 03-Sep | |
| Make | Mazda | Saab |
| Model | 3 | 03-Sep |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 1985 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 203 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 187 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1310 kg | 1395 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 75 L |
