1981 Honda Accord vs. 2006 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2006 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Honda Accord. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Honda Accord would be higher. At 1,602 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Honda Accord is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda RX-8 (108 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 1981 Honda Accord. (79 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1981 Honda Accord.
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, 1981 Honda Accord, 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 14 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Honda Accord. (126 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2006 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Honda Accord. 2006 Mazda RX-8 has automatic transmission and 1981 Honda Accord has manual transmission. 1981 Honda Accord 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:
1981 Honda Accord | 2006 Mazda RX-8 | |
Make | Honda | Mazda |
Model | Accord | RX-8 |
Year Released | 1981 | 2006 |
Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1602 cc | 1308 cc |
Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
Horse Power | 79 HP | 108 HP |
Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 8200 RPM |
Torque | 126 Nm | 140 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 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 | 4350 mm | 4430 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1780 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1350 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2390 mm | 2710 mm |