2009 Mazda RX-8 vs. 1972 Saab 99
To start off, 2009 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 37 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Saab 99. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Saab 99 would be higher. At 1,985 cc (4 cylinders), 1972 Saab 99 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Saab 99 (108 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 0 more horse power than 2009 Mazda RX-8. (108 HP @ 8200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1972 Saab 99 should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda RX-8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Saab 99 weights approximately 25 kg more than 2009 Mazda RX-8. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 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 2009 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1972 Saab 99, 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, 1972 Saab 99 (167 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda RX-8. (140 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 1972 Saab 99 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda RX-8.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Mazda RX-8 | 1972 Saab 99 | |
Make | Mazda | Saab |
Model | RX-8 | 99 |
Year Released | 2009 | 1972 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1308 cc | 1985 cc |
Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
Horse Power | 108 HP | 108 HP |
Engine RPM | 8200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 140 Nm | 167 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 3700 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.7:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1125 kg | 1150 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4430 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1700 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1450 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2480 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 62 L |