1985 Audi 100 vs. 2009 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2009 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Audi 100. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Audi 100 would be higher. At 1,986 cc (5 cylinders), 1985 Audi 100 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda RX-8 (229 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 159 more horse power than 1985 Audi 100. (70 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1985 Audi 100. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 165 kg more than 1985 Audi 100. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1985 Audi 100, 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 (159 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 36 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Audi 100. (123 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Audi 100.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Audi 100 | 2009 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Audi | Mazda |
| Model | 100 | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1986 cc | 1299 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 229 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 8500 RPM |
| Torque | 123 Nm | 159 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 23.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 154 km/hour | 237 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1260 kg | 1425 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4800 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2710 mm |
