2006 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2003 Saturn L
To start off, 2006 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Saturn L. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Saturn L would be higher. At 2,196 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Saturn L is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda RX-8 (228 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 93 more horse power than 2003 Saturn L. (135 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2003 Saturn L. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 108 kg more than 2003 Saturn L. 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, 2003 Saturn L, 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 12 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Saturn L. (199 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2006 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Saturn L.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mazda RX-8 | 2003 Saturn L | |
| Make | Mazda | Saturn |
| Model | RX-8 | L |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1308 cc | 2196 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 135 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8200 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 211 Nm | 199 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| 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 | 1320 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 59 L |
