2008 Mazda RX-8 vs. 1985 Saab 900
To start off, 2008 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Saab 900. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Saab 900 would be higher. At 1,985 cc (4 cylinders), 1985 Saab 900 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda RX-8 (189 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 89 more horse power than 1985 Saab 900. (100 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1985 Saab 900. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 242 kg more than 1985 Saab 900. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 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 2008 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1985 Saab 900, 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, 2008 Mazda RX-8 (220 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 58 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Saab 900. (162 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Saab 900.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda RX-8 | 1985 Saab 900 | |
| Make | Mazda | Saab |
| Model | RX-8 | 900 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1985 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1308 cc | 1985 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 162 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 78 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1422 kg | 1180 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2530 mm |
