2008 Mazda RX-8 vs. 1998 Saturn SC
To start off, 2008 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Saturn SC. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Saturn SC would be higher. At 1,901 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Saturn SC is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda RX-8 (189 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 89 more horse power than 1998 Saturn SC. (100 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1998 Saturn SC. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 377 kg more than 1998 Saturn SC. 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, 1998 Saturn SC, 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 62 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Saturn SC. (158 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Saturn SC.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Mazda RX-8 | 1998 Saturn SC | |
Make | Mazda | Saturn |
Model | RX-8 | SC |
Year Released | 2008 | 1998 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1308 cc | 1901 cc |
Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
Horse Power | 189 HP | 100 HP |
Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 220 Nm | 158 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Vehicle Weight | 1422 kg | 1045 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4580 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1720 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1360 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2610 mm |