2008 Mazda 3 vs. 2003 Saab 05-Sep
To start off, 2008 Mazda 3 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Saab 05-Sep. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Saab 05-Sep would be higher. At 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda 3 (149 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 2003 Saab 05-Sep. (148 HP @ 5300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2003 Saab 05-Sep. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Saab 05-Sep weights approximately 253 kg more than 2008 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 05-Sep (240 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 53 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda 3. (187 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2003 Saab 05-Sep will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mazda 3. 2003 Saab 05-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. 2003 Saab 05-Sep will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda 3 | 2003 Saab 05-Sep | |
| Make | Mazda | Saab |
| Model | 3 | 05-Sep |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| 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 | 149 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5300 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 | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1235 kg | 1488 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 75 L |
