1977 Ford Fiesta vs. 2009 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2009 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Ford Fiesta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Ford Fiesta would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 1977 Ford Fiesta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda RX-8 (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 166 more horse power than 1977 Ford Fiesta. (66 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1977 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 320 kg more than 1977 Ford Fiesta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Mazda RX-8 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 2009 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1977 Ford Fiesta, 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, 2009 Mazda RX-8 (216 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 105 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Ford Fiesta. (111 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Ford Fiesta.
Compare all specifications:
1977 Ford Fiesta | 2009 Mazda RX-8 | |
Make | Ford | Mazda |
Model | Fiesta | RX-8 |
Year Released | 1977 | 2009 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1308 cc |
Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
Horse Power | 66 HP | 232 HP |
Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 8500 RPM |
Torque | 111 Nm | 216 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 805 kg | 1125 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3570 mm | 4470 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1570 mm | 1780 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1350 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2290 mm | 2710 mm |