1984 Ford Orion vs. 2009 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2009 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Ford Orion. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Ford Orion would be higher. At 1,392 cc (4 cylinders), 1984 Ford Orion is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda RX-8 (189 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 115 more horse power than 1984 Ford Orion. (74 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1984 Ford Orion.
Because 2009 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 2009 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1984 Ford Orion, 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, 2009 Mazda RX-8 (220 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 109 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Ford Orion. (111 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Ford Orion.
Compare all specifications:
| 1984 Ford Orion | 2009 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Orion | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 1984 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1392 cc | 1308 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 189 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 111 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2710 mm |
