2006 Mazda RX-8 vs. 1971 Saab 99
To start off, 2006 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Saab 99. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Saab 99 would be higher. At 1,853 cc (4 cylinders), 1971 Saab 99 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda RX-8 (228 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 143 more horse power than 1971 Saab 99. (85 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1971 Saab 99. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 308 kg more than 1971 Saab 99. 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, 1971 Saab 99, 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 64 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Saab 99. (147 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Saab 99.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mazda RX-8 | 1971 Saab 99 | |
| Make | Mazda | Saab |
| Model | RX-8 | 99 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1308 cc | 1853 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 85 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 211 Nm | 147 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 78 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1428 kg | 1120 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2480 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 60 L |
