2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1980 Saab 900
To start off, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Saab 900. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Saab 900 would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata (148 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 1980 Saab 900. (100 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1980 Saab 900. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Saab 900 weights approximately 85 kg more than 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Because 2008 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 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 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, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata (188 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Saab 900. (163 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Saab 900.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1980 Saab 900 | |
Make | Mazda | Saab |
Model | MX-5 Miata | 900 |
Year Released | 2008 | 1980 |
Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1985 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 148 HP | 100 HP |
Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Torque | 188 Nm | 163 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 90 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 78 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1095 kg | 1180 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4750 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1250 mm | 1700 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1730 mm | 1430 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2530 mm |