1958 Ford 12 M vs. 2005 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2005 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 47 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1958 Ford 12 M. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1958 Ford 12 M would be higher. At 1,307 cc, 2005 Mazda RX-8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mazda RX-8 (228 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 191 more horse power than 1958 Ford 12 M. (37 HP @ 4250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1958 Ford 12 M.
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:
| 1958 Ford 12 M | 2005 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | 12 M | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 1958 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1170 cc | 1307 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 37 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4250 RPM | 8200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4070 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1560 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2680 mm |
