1980 Chevrolet El Camino vs. 2005 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2005 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Chevrolet El Camino. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Chevrolet El Camino would be higher. At 4,400 cc (6 cylinders), 1980 Chevrolet El Camino is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mazda RX-8 (189 HP) has 54 more horse power than 1980 Chevrolet El Camino. (135 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1980 Chevrolet El Camino. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Chevrolet El Camino weights approximately 165 kg more than 2005 Mazda RX-8.
Because 2005 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 2005 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 Chevrolet El Camino, 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, 1980 Chevrolet El Camino (271 Nm) has 51 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mazda RX-8. (220 Nm). This means 1980 Chevrolet El Camino will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mazda RX-8. 1980 Chevrolet El Camino has automatic transmission and 2005 Mazda RX-8 has manual transmission. 2005 Mazda RX-8 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1980 Chevrolet El Camino will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Chevrolet El Camino | 2005 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mazda |
| Model | El Camino | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4400 cc | 2614 cc |
| Engine Type | V | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 135 HP | 189 HP |
| Torque | 271 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.3:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1555 kg | 1390 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5130 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2980 mm | 2710 mm |
