2008 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2006 Saab 03-Sep
To start off, 2008 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Saab 03-Sep. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Saab 03-Sep would be higher. At 2,792 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Saab 03-Sep is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Saab 03-Sep (271 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 2008 Mazda RX-8. (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Saab 03-Sep should accelerate faster than 2008 Mazda RX-8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Saab 03-Sep weights approximately 276 kg more than 2008 Mazda RX-8. 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, 2006 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, 2006 Saab 03-Sep (401 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 185 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda RX-8. (216 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2006 Saab 03-Sep will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mazda RX-8. 2006 Saab 03-Sep has automatic transmission and 2008 Mazda RX-8 has manual transmission. 2008 Mazda RX-8 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Saab 03-Sep will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda RX-8 | 2006 Saab 03-Sep | |
| Make | Mazda | Saab |
| Model | RX-8 | 03-Sep |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1308 cc | 2792 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | V |
| Horse Power | 232 HP | 271 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 216 Nm | 401 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1329 kg | 1605 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.8 L/100km | 10.3 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 58 L |
