1978 Innocenti Mini vs. 2002 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2002 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Innocenti Mini. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Innocenti Mini would be higher. At 2,616 cc, 2002 Mazda RX-8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mazda RX-8 (238 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 190 more horse power than 1978 Innocenti Mini. (48 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1978 Innocenti Mini. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 612 kg more than 1978 Innocenti Mini. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 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 2002 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 Innocenti Mini, 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, 2002 Mazda RX-8 (211 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 142 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Innocenti Mini. (69 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2002 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Innocenti Mini.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Innocenti Mini | 2002 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Innocenti | Mazda |
| Model | Mini | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 998 cc | 2616 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 48 HP | 238 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 8200 RPM |
| Torque | 69 Nm | 211 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 726 kg | 1338 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3170 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2050 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 38 L | 61 L |
