1979 Isuzu 117 vs. 2009 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2009 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Isuzu 117. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Isuzu 117 would be higher. At 2,236 cc (4 cylinders), 1979 Isuzu 117 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda RX-8 (108 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 1979 Isuzu 117. (72 HP @ 4300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1979 Isuzu 117. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Isuzu 117 weights approximately 40 kg more than 2009 Mazda RX-8.
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, 2009 Mazda RX-8 (140 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 1 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Isuzu 117. (139 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Isuzu 117. 2009 Mazda RX-8 has automatic transmission and 1979 Isuzu 117 has manual transmission. 1979 Isuzu 117 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Mazda RX-8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Isuzu 117 | 2009 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Isuzu | Mazda |
| Model | 117 | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2236 cc | 1308 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 72 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4300 RPM | 8200 RPM |
| Torque | 139 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 21.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1165 kg | 1125 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1610 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 56 L | 61 L |
