1989 Mazda RX-7 vs. 2008 Saab 05-Sep
To start off, 2008 Saab 05-Sep is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Mazda RX-7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Mazda RX-7 would be higher. At 2,616 cc, 1989 Mazda RX-7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Saab 05-Sep (260 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 63 more horse power than 1989 Mazda RX-7. (197 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Saab 05-Sep should accelerate faster than 1989 Mazda RX-7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Saab 05-Sep weights approximately 290 kg more than 1989 Mazda RX-7. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1989 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 1989 Mazda RX-7. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Saab 05-Sep, 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, 2008 Saab 05-Sep (350 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 79 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mazda RX-7. (271 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Saab 05-Sep will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mazda RX-7. 2008 Saab 05-Sep has automatic transmission and 1989 Mazda RX-7 has manual transmission. 1989 Mazda RX-7 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Saab 05-Sep will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Mazda RX-7 | 2008 Saab 05-Sep | |
| Make | Mazda | Saab |
| Model | RX-7 | 05-Sep |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2616 cc | 2299 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 260 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 271 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1590 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 75 L | 68 L |
