2003 Mazda RX-8 vs. 1983 Saab 99
To start off, 2003 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Saab 99. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Saab 99 would be higher. At 1,985 cc (4 cylinders), 1983 Saab 99 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mazda RX-8 (228 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 143 more horse power than 1983 Saab 99. (85 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1983 Saab 99. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 285 kg more than 1983 Saab 99. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 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 2003 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1983 Saab 99, 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, 2003 Mazda RX-8 (211 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 64 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Saab 99. (147 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Saab 99.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mazda RX-8 | 1983 Saab 99 | |
| Make | Mazda | Saab |
| Model | RX-8 | 99 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1983 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1308 cc | 1985 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 85 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8200 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 211 Nm | 147 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1425 kg | 1140 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2480 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 60 L |
