2008 Mazda RX-8 vs. 1996 Saab 900
To start off, 2008 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Saab 900. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Saab 900 would be higher. At 1,985 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Saab 900 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda RX-8 (228 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 96 more horse power than 1996 Saab 900. (132 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1996 Saab 900. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 110 kg more than 1996 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, 1996 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 (211 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 34 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Saab 900. (177 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Saab 900.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda RX-8 | 1996 Saab 900 | |
| Make | Mazda | Saab |
| Model | RX-8 | 900 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1308 cc | 1985 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 132 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 211 Nm | 177 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.1:1 |
| 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 | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1425 kg | 1315 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 68 L |
