2004 Mazda RX-8 vs. 1979 Saab 900
To start off, 2004 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Saab 900. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Saab 900 would be higher. At 2,616 cc, 2004 Mazda RX-8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mazda RX-8 (189 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 89 more horse power than 1979 Saab 900. (100 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1979 Saab 900. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 192 kg more than 1979 Saab 900. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 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 2004 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1979 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, 2004 Mazda RX-8 (220 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 58 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Saab 900. (162 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2004 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Saab 900.
Compare all specifications:
2004 Mazda RX-8 | 1979 Saab 900 | |
Make | Mazda | Saab |
Model | RX-8 | 900 |
Year Released | 2004 | 1979 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2616 cc | 1983 cc |
Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
Horse Power | 189 HP | 100 HP |
Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Torque | 220 Nm | 162 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1392 kg | 1200 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4750 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1700 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1430 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2530 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 58 L |