1966 Maserati Mistral vs. 2006 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2006 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 40 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 Maserati Mistral. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 Maserati Mistral would be higher. At 4,014 cc (6 cylinders), 1966 Maserati Mistral is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1966 Maserati Mistral (252 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 2006 Mazda RX-8. (228 HP @ 8200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1966 Maserati Mistral 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 163 kg more than 1966 Maserati Mistral.
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, 1966 Maserati Mistral (363 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 152 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda RX-8. (211 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 1966 Maserati Mistral will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda RX-8.
Compare all specifications:
| 1966 Maserati Mistral | 2006 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Maserati | Mazda |
| Model | Mistral | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 1966 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4014 cc | 1308 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 252 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 8200 RPM |
| Torque | 363 Nm | 211 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1265 kg | 1428 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2710 mm |
