Well, both have their Pros and Cons so I am gonna put down main things to consider and do a direct comparison.
Pros for 8th Gen: It has an overall better driving pleasure, it hugs the road better, corners much better, it's agile and sharp specially at turns, it is quite confident in driving under rash conditions compared to 9th.
Pros for 9th Gen: It has better ride comfort, interior is better, fuel consumption is better, gadgets are better, headlight illumination is better, easier and convenient to drive in daily use, the braking system has a better force and response (please do keep in minding braking force and grip are two different things)
Now the driving difference mainly comes down to the way it feels, just the feeling of your hands on the steering and movement of the car, I have taken 8th Gen till 221 kmph on stock 195/65-15 tyre size and I didn't feel scared. Whereas this is exactly where the 9th Gen lacks. On 195/65-15 Yokos despite all balancing and everything the car feels bouncy and in the air/afloat. And at 140 it gave the feeling which 8th does at 190. Then I switched to 205/60-15 Yokos and the car got much better, less bouncy and was okay till 170, but beyond that it's too scary in the 9th but never on the 8th.
In a nutshell: forgetting the cruise control on motorway, I would simply like to take 8th Gen for the trip instead of 9th. Taking turns on Murree and Nathiagali roads 8th is much better. For driving a bit in the mood I wouldn't want 9th. For everyday use and peaceful driving. I would simply want the 9th Gen. The 9th could have been as good for fun as well in driving if it wasn't so high.
Disclaimer: please don't think these ordinary family cars are meant for over speeding. Sometimes you are feeling stupid, try not to go into that state of mind. Drive safe
BUT: Overall preference, 8th Gen. It's easier to let a 9th Gen go but not 8th
https://www.pakwheels.com/forums/showthread.php?t=272964