2006 Mazda RX-8 vs. 1970 Saab Sonett II
To start off, 2006 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Saab Sonett II. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Saab Sonett II would be higher. At 1,498 cc (4 cylinders), 1970 Saab Sonett II is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda RX-8 (228 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 164 more horse power than 1970 Saab Sonett II. (64 HP @ 4700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1970 Saab Sonett II. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 653 kg more than 1970 Saab Sonett II. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 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 2006 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1970 Saab Sonett II, 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, 2006 Mazda RX-8 (211 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 96 more torque (in Nm) than 1970 Saab Sonett II. (115 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2006 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1970 Saab Sonett II.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mazda RX-8 | 1970 Saab Sonett II | |
| Make | Mazda | Saab |
| Model | RX-8 | Sonett II |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1970 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1308 cc | 1498 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 Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 58.9 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1428 kg | 775 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 3790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1450 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1170 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2160 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 60 L |
