2009 Mazda RX-8 vs. 1988 Saab 900
To start off, 2009 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Saab 900. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Saab 900 would be higher. At 1,985 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Saab 900 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda RX-8 (228 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 127 more horse power than 1988 Saab 900. (101 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1988 Saab 900. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 245 kg more than 1988 Saab 900. 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, 1988 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, 2009 Mazda RX-8 (211 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 49 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Saab 900. (162 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Saab 900.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Mazda RX-8 | 1988 Saab 900 | |
Make | Mazda | Saab |
Model | RX-8 | 900 |
Year Released | 2009 | 1988 |
Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1306 cc | 1985 cc |
Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
Horse Power | 228 HP | 101 HP |
Engine RPM | 8200 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Torque | 211 Nm | 162 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 90 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 78 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1425 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 |