2009 Mazda 3 vs. 1981 Saab 900
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Saab 900. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Saab 900 would be higher. At 1,998 cc, 2009 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda 3 (145 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 1981 Saab 900. (100 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1981 Saab 900. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda 3 weights approximately 62 kg more than 1981 Saab 900. 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, 2009 Mazda 3 (181 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 19 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Saab 900. (162 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Saab 900.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda 3 | 1981 Saab 900 | |
| Make | Mazda | Saab |
| Model | 3 | 900 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1985 cc |
| Horse Power | 145 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 181 Nm | 162 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1242 kg | 1180 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2530 mm |
