1952 Ferrari 342 America vs. 2006 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2006 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 54 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1952 Ferrari 342 America. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1952 Ferrari 342 America would be higher. At 4,101 cc (12 cylinders), 1952 Ferrari 342 America is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1952 Ferrari 342 America (197 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 2006 Mazda RX-8. (190 HP @ 7000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1952 Ferrari 342 America should accelerate faster than 2006 Mazda RX-8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 330 kg more than 1952 Ferrari 342 America.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1952 Ferrari 342 America | 2006 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Ferrari | Mazda |
| Model | 342 America | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 1952 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4101 cc | 1308 cc |
| Engine Type | V | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 68 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 186 km/hour | 223 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1090 kg | 1420 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 105 L | 61 L |
