1983 Ford Mustang vs. 2005 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2005 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Ford Mustang. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Ford Mustang would be higher. At 3,797 cc (6 cylinders), 1983 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mazda RX-8 (228 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 110 more horse power than 1983 Ford Mustang. (118 HP @ 3600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1983 Ford Mustang. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1983 Ford Mustang weights approximately 213 kg more than 2005 Mazda RX-8.
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, 1983 Ford Mustang (278 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 67 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mazda RX-8. (211 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 1983 Ford Mustang will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mazda RX-8.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Ford Mustang | 2005 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Mustang | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 1983 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3797 cc | 1308 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 8200 RPM |
| Torque | 278 Nm | 211 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1278 kg | 1065 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2840 mm |
