2008 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2009 Saab 03-Sep
To start off, 2009 Saab 03-Sep is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Mazda RX-8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Mazda RX-8 would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Saab 03-Sep is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda RX-8 (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 2009 Saab 03-Sep. (210 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2009 Saab 03-Sep. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Saab 03-Sep weights approximately 245 kg more than 2008 Mazda RX-8.
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, 2009 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, 2009 Saab 03-Sep (300 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 84 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda RX-8. (216 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2009 Saab 03-Sep will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mazda RX-8.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda RX-8 | 2009 Saab 03-Sep | |
| Make | Mazda | Saab |
| Model | RX-8 | 03-Sep |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1308 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 232 HP | 210 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 216 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1329 kg | 1574 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 10.2 L/100km | 8.3 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 14.7 L/100km | 12.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.8 L/100km | 10.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 61 L |
