2008 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2009 Saab 05-Sep
To start off, 2009 Saab 05-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 2,290 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Saab 05-Sep is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Saab 05-Sep (256 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 2008 Mazda RX-8. (189 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Saab 05-Sep should accelerate faster than 2008 Mazda RX-8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Saab 05-Sep weights approximately 156 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, 2009 Saab 05-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 05-Sep (258 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 38 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda RX-8. (220 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2009 Saab 05-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 05-Sep | |
| Make | Mazda | Saab |
| Model | RX-8 | 05-Sep |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1308 cc | 2290 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 256 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 258 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1422 kg | 1578 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1800 mm |
