1988 Mazda RX-7 vs. 1989 Saab 900
To start off, 1989 Saab 900 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Mazda RX-7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Mazda RX-7 would be higher. At 2,616 cc, 1988 Mazda RX-7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Saab 900 (185 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 1988 Mazda RX-7. (148 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Saab 900 should accelerate faster than 1988 Mazda RX-7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Saab 900 weights approximately 60 kg more than 1988 Mazda RX-7. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1988 Mazda RX-7 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 1988 Mazda RX-7. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 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, 1989 Saab 900 (273 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 87 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Mazda RX-7. (186 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1989 Saab 900 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Mazda RX-7.
Compare all specifications:
1988 Mazda RX-7 | 1989 Saab 900 | |
Make | Mazda | Saab |
Model | RX-7 | 900 |
Year Released | 1988 | 1989 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2616 cc | 1984 cc |
Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
Horse Power | 148 HP | 185 HP |
Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 186 Nm | 273 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1230 kg | 1290 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4950 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1700 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1430 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2720 mm |