2002 Saab 03-Sep vs. 2011 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2011 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Saab 03-Sep. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Saab 03-Sep would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Saab 03-Sep is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mazda RX-8 (212 HP @ 7500 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 2002 Saab 03-Sep. (173 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2002 Saab 03-Sep. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Saab 03-Sep weights approximately 99 kg more than 2011 Mazda RX-8.
Because 2011 Mazda RX-8 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 2011 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Saab 03-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, 2002 Saab 03-Sep (280 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Mazda RX-8. (215 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2002 Saab 03-Sep will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Mazda RX-8. 2011 Mazda RX-8 has automatic transmission and 2002 Saab 03-Sep has manual transmission. 2002 Saab 03-Sep will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Mazda RX-8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Saab 03-Sep | 2011 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Saab | Mazda |
| Model | 03-Sep | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1300 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 173 HP | 212 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 7500 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 215 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1510 kg | 1411 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1341 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2703 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 64 L |
