2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1981 Saab 900
To start off, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata 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 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata (167 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 1981 Saab 900. (100 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1981 Saab 900. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Saab 900 weights approximately 220 kg more than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Because 2009 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 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 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, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata (190 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Saab 900. (162 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Saab 900.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1981 Saab 900 | |
| Make | Mazda | Saab |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | 900 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 1985 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 167 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 162 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.4:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 960 kg | 1180 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2530 mm |
