1976 Holden Statesman vs. 2009 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2009 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Holden Statesman. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Holden Statesman would be higher. At 5,040 cc (8 cylinders), 1976 Holden Statesman is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1976 Holden Statesman (238 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 2009 Mazda RX-8. (228 HP @ 8200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1976 Holden Statesman should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda RX-8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Holden Statesman weights approximately 110 kg more than 2009 Mazda RX-8. 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, 1976 Holden Statesman (427 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 216 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda RX-8. (211 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 1976 Holden Statesman will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda RX-8.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Holden Statesman | 2009 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Holden | Mazda |
| Model | Statesman | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5040 cc | 1306 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 238 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 8200 RPM |
| Torque | 427 Nm | 211 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1535 kg | 1425 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5190 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2710 mm |
