1976 Mazda RX-4 vs. 1996 Rover 800
To start off, 1996 Rover 800 is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Mazda RX-4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Mazda RX-4 would be higher. At 2,616 cc, 1976 Mazda RX-4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Rover 800 (174 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 1976 Mazda RX-4. (114 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Rover 800 should accelerate faster than 1976 Mazda RX-4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Rover 800 weights approximately 325 kg more than 1976 Mazda RX-4. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1976 Mazda RX-4 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1976 Mazda RX-4. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Rover 800, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 1996 Rover 800 (240 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Mazda RX-4. (165 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1996 Rover 800 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Mazda RX-4.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Mazda RX-4 | 1996 Rover 800 | |
| Make | Mazda | Rover |
| Model | RX-4 | 800 |
| Year Released | 1976 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2616 cc | 2497 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 174 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1110 kg | 1435 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2780 mm |
