2006 Mazda RX-8 vs. 1999 Saab 03-Sep
To start off, 2006 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Saab 03-Sep. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Saab 03-Sep would be higher. At 2,290 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Saab 03-Sep is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Saab 03-Sep (225 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 2006 Mazda RX-8. (190 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Saab 03-Sep should accelerate faster than 2006 Mazda RX-8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 22 kg more than 1999 Saab 03-Sep.
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, 1999 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, 1999 Saab 03-Sep (342 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 122 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda RX-8. (220 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1999 Saab 03-Sep will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda RX-8.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mazda RX-8 | 1999 Saab 03-Sep | |
| Make | Mazda | Saab |
| Model | RX-8 | 03-Sep |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1308 cc | 2290 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 225 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 342 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.3:1 |
| Top Speed | 223 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.2 seconds | 6.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1420 kg | 1398 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4650 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 68 L |
