2009 Mazda 3 vs. 1988 Saab 9000
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Saab 9000. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Saab 9000 would be higher. At 1,998 cc, 2009 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Saab 9000 (204 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 2009 Mazda 3. (145 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 Saab 9000 should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Saab 9000 weights approximately 78 kg more than 2009 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, 1988 Saab 9000 (290 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 109 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda 3. (181 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1988 Saab 9000 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda 3 | 1988 Saab 9000 | |
| Make | Mazda | Saab |
| Model | 3 | 9000 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1985 cc |
| Horse Power | 145 HP | 204 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 181 Nm | 290 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 90.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1242 kg | 1320 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2670 mm |
