1979 Austin Allegro vs. 2006 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2006 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Austin Allegro. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Austin Allegro would be higher. At 1,308 cc, 2006 Mazda RX-8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda RX-8 (108 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 64 more horse power than 1979 Austin Allegro. (44 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1979 Austin Allegro.
Because 2006 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 2006 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1979 Austin Allegro, 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, 2006 Mazda RX-8 (140 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 66 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Austin Allegro. (74 Nm @ 2900 RPM). This means 2006 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Austin Allegro. 2006 Mazda RX-8 has automatic transmission and 1979 Austin Allegro has manual transmission. 1979 Austin Allegro will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Mazda RX-8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Austin Allegro | 2006 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Austin | Mazda |
| Model | Allegro | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1098 cc | 1308 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 44 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 8200 RPM |
| Torque | 74 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2900 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3200 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2710 mm |
