1980 Mazda RX-7 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 Mazda RX-7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Mazda RX-7 would be higher. At 2,292 cc, 1980 Mazda RX-7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda RX-8 (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 128 more horse power than 1980 Mazda RX-7. (104 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1980 Mazda RX-7.
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 (216 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 71 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Mazda RX-7. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Mazda RX-7.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Mazda RX-7 | 2009 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | RX-7 | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2292 cc | 1306 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 232 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 8500 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 216 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 64 L |
