1958 GAZ M20 vs. 2008 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2008 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 50 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1958 GAZ M20. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1958 GAZ M20 would be higher. At 2,120 cc (4 cylinders), 1958 GAZ M20 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda RX-8 (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 181 more horse power than 1958 GAZ M20. (51 HP @ 3600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1958 GAZ M20. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1958 GAZ M20 weights approximately 131 kg more than 2008 Mazda RX-8.
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. Let's talk about torque, 2008 Mazda RX-8 (216 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 91 more torque (in Nm) than 1958 GAZ M20. (125 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1958 GAZ M20.
Compare all specifications:
| 1958 GAZ M20 | 2008 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | GAZ | Mazda |
| Model | M20 | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 1958 | 2008 |
| Engine Size | 2120 cc | 1308 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 51 HP | 232 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 8500 RPM |
| Torque | 125 Nm | 216 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1460 kg | 1329 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1650 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2710 mm |
