2005 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2001 Saab 03-Sep
To start off, 2005 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Saab 03-Sep. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Saab 03-Sep would be higher. At 2,290 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Saab 03-Sep is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Saab 03-Sep (230 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 2005 Mazda RX-8. (228 HP @ 8200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Saab 03-Sep should accelerate faster than 2005 Mazda RX-8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Saab 03-Sep weights approximately 13 kg more than 2005 Mazda RX-8. 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, 2001 Saab 03-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 03-Sep (351 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 140 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mazda RX-8. (211 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2001 Saab 03-Sep will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mazda RX-8.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mazda RX-8 | 2001 Saab 03-Sep | |
| Make | Mazda | Saab |
| Model | RX-8 | 03-Sep |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1307 cc | 2290 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 230 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 211 Nm | 351 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1425 kg | 1438 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4650 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 64 L |
