2005 Mazda RX-8 vs. 1968 Saab Sonett
To start off, 2005 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 37 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Saab Sonett. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Saab Sonett would be higher. At 1,496 cc (4 cylinders), 1968 Saab Sonett is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mazda RX-8 (228 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 164 more horse power than 1968 Saab Sonett. (64 HP @ 4700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1968 Saab Sonett. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 290 kg more than 1968 Saab Sonett. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 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 2005 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1968 Saab Sonett, 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, 2005 Mazda RX-8 (211 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 96 more torque (in Nm) than 1968 Saab Sonett. (115 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2005 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1968 Saab Sonett.
Compare all specifications:
2005 Mazda RX-8 | 1968 Saab Sonett | |
Make | Mazda | Saab |
Model | RX-8 | Sonett |
Year Released | 2005 | 1968 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1308 cc | 1496 cc |
Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
Horse Power | 228 HP | 64 HP |
Engine RPM | 8200 RPM | 4700 RPM |
Torque | 211 Nm | 115 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.5:1 |
Top Speed | 235 km/hour | 161 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1065 kg | 775 kg |
Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2160 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 60 L |