2004 Mazda RX-8 vs. 1990 Saab 900
To start off, 2004 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Saab 900. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 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 31 more horse power than 1990 Saab 900. (158 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1990 Saab 900. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 42 kg more than 1990 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, 1990 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, 1990 Saab 900 (255 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mazda RX-8. (220 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1990 Saab 900 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mazda RX-8.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mazda RX-8 | 1990 Saab 900 | |
| Make | Mazda | Saab |
| Model | RX-8 | 900 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1990 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2616 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 255 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1392 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2530 mm |
