1974 Holden Statesman vs. 2005 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2005 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Holden Statesman. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Holden Statesman would be higher. At 3,297 cc (6 cylinders), 1974 Holden Statesman is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mazda RX-8 (189 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 1974 Holden Statesman. (133 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1974 Holden Statesman. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 10 kg more than 1974 Holden Statesman. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1974 Holden Statesman (263 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 43 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mazda RX-8. (220 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1974 Holden Statesman will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mazda RX-8.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Holden Statesman | 2005 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Holden | Mazda |
| Model | Statesman | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3297 cc | 2614 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 133 HP | 189 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 263 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1390 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5040 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2710 mm |
