2009 Mazda 3 vs. 1998 Saab 03-Sep
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Saab 03-Sep. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Saab 03-Sep would be higher. At 1,998 cc, 2009 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Saab 03-Sep (152 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 2009 Mazda 3. (145 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Saab 03-Sep should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Saab 03-Sep weights approximately 98 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, 1998 Saab 03-Sep (219 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 38 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda 3. (181 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1998 Saab 03-Sep will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda 3 | 1998 Saab 03-Sep | |
| Make | Mazda | Saab |
| Model | 3 | 03-Sep |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1985 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 145 HP | 152 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 181 Nm | 219 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1242 kg | 1340 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 75 L |
