1976 Mazda 818 vs. 2007 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2007 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Mazda 818. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Mazda 818 would be higher. At 1,308 cc, 2007 Mazda RX-8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mazda RX-8 (189 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 121 more horse power than 1976 Mazda 818. (68 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1976 Mazda 818. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 418 kg more than 1976 Mazda 818. 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, 2007 Mazda RX-8 (221 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 129 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Mazda 818. (92 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2007 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Mazda 818.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Mazda 818 | 2007 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 818 | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1272 cc | 1308 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 68 HP | 189 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 92 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1002 kg | 1420 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1600 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2320 mm | 2710 mm |
