2006 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2002 Saab 03-Sep
To start off, 2006 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Saab 03-Sep. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Saab 03-Sep would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Saab 03-Sep is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda RX-8 (228 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 2002 Saab 03-Sep. (173 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2002 Saab 03-Sep. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Saab 03-Sep weights approximately 82 kg more than 2006 Mazda RX-8.
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, 2002 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, 2002 Saab 03-Sep (280 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 69 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda RX-8. (211 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2002 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 | 2002 Saab 03-Sep | |
| Make | Mazda | Saab |
| Model | RX-8 | 03-Sep |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1308 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 173 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 211 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.4 seconds | 8.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1428 kg | 1510 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.2 L/100km | 8.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 61 L |
