2004 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2001 Saab 05-Sep
To start off, 2004 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Saab 05-Sep. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Saab 05-Sep would be higher. At 2,962 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 Saab 05-Sep is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mazda RX-8 (189 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 2001 Saab 05-Sep. (173 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2001 Saab 05-Sep.
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, 2001 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, 2001 Saab 05-Sep (350 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 130 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mazda RX-8. (220 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2001 Saab 05-Sep will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mazda RX-8. 2001 Saab 05-Sep has automatic transmission and 2004 Mazda RX-8 has manual transmission. 2004 Mazda RX-8 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Saab 05-Sep will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mazda RX-8 | 2001 Saab 05-Sep | |
| Make | Mazda | Saab |
| Model | RX-8 | 05-Sep |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2616 cc | 2962 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | V |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 173 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 75 L |
