1980 Audi 80 vs. 2009 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2009 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Audi 80. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Audi 80 would be higher. At 1,587 cc (4 cylinders), 1980 Audi 80 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda RX-8 (228 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 175 more horse power than 1980 Audi 80. (53 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1980 Audi 80. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 445 kg more than 1980 Audi 80. 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, 1980 Audi 80, 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 (211 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 107 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Audi 80. (104 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Audi 80.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Audi 80 | 2009 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Audi | Mazda |
| Model | 80 | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1587 cc | 1306 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 8200 RPM |
| Torque | 104 Nm | 211 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.5 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 23.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 144 km/hour | 235 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 980 kg | 1425 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4390 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 61 L |
