1983 Mazda Cosmo vs. 2008 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2008 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Mazda Cosmo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Mazda Cosmo would be higher. At 1,769 cc (4 cylinders), 1983 Mazda Cosmo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda RX-8 (228 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 135 more horse power than 1983 Mazda Cosmo. (93 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1983 Mazda Cosmo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 335 kg more than 1983 Mazda Cosmo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2008 Mazda RX-8 (211 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 62 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Mazda Cosmo. (149 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Mazda Cosmo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Mazda Cosmo | 2008 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | Cosmo | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 1983 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1769 cc | 1308 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 93 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 8200 RPM |
| Torque | 149 Nm | 211 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1090 kg | 1425 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2710 mm |
