2009 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2008 Saab 03-Sep
To start off, 2009 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Saab 03-Sep. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Saab 03-Sep would be higher. At 1,996 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Saab 03-Sep is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda RX-8 (229 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 2008 Saab 03-Sep. (207 HP @ 5300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2008 Saab 03-Sep. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Saab 03-Sep weights approximately 265 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, 2008 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, 2008 Saab 03-Sep (300 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 141 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda RX-8. (159 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2008 Saab 03-Sep 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 | 2008 Saab 03-Sep | |
| Make | Mazda | Saab |
| Model | RX-8 | 03-Sep |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1299 cc | 1996 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 229 HP | 207 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8500 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 159 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 237 km/hour | 230 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7 seconds | 8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1425 kg | 1690 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 12.6 L/100km | 9.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 61 L |
