1971 Dodge Challenger vs. 2005 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2005 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Dodge Challenger. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Dodge Challenger would be higher. At 3,685 cc (6 cylinders), 1971 Dodge Challenger is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mazda RX-8 (189 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 66 more horse power than 1971 Dodge Challenger. (123 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1971 Dodge Challenger. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Dodge Challenger weights approximately 80 kg more than 2005 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, 1971 Dodge Challenger (233 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 13 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mazda RX-8. (220 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1971 Dodge Challenger will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mazda RX-8.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Dodge Challenger | 2005 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Dodge | Mazda |
| Model | Challenger | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3685 cc | 2614 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 189 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 233 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1470 kg | 1390 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1940 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2710 mm |
