2009 Mazda RX-8 vs. 1986 Saab 900
To start off, 2009 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Saab 900. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Saab 900 would be higher. At 1,985 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 Saab 900 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda RX-8 (108 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 1986 Saab 900. (100 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1986 Saab 900. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Saab 900 weights approximately 55 kg more than 2009 Mazda RX-8.
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, 1986 Saab 900, 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, 1986 Saab 900 (162 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 22 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda RX-8. (140 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 1986 Saab 900 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 | 1986 Saab 900 | |
| Make | Mazda | Saab |
| Model | RX-8 | 900 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1986 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1308 cc | 1985 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8200 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 162 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1125 kg | 1180 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2530 mm |
