1982 Honda Prelude vs. 2008 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2008 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Honda Prelude. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Honda Prelude would be higher. At 1,750 cc (4 cylinders), 1982 Honda Prelude is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda RX-8 (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 142 more horse power than 1982 Honda Prelude. (90 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1982 Honda Prelude. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 439 kg more than 1982 Honda Prelude. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 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 2008 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1982 Honda Prelude, 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, 2008 Mazda RX-8 (216 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 74 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Honda Prelude. (142 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Honda Prelude.
Compare all specifications:
| 1982 Honda Prelude | 2008 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Honda | Mazda |
| Model | Prelude | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 1982 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1750 cc | 1308 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 232 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 8500 RPM |
| Torque | 142 Nm | 216 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 890 kg | 1329 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2330 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 60 L |
