1985 Maserati 228 vs. 2002 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2002 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Maserati 228. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Maserati 228 would be higher. At 2,790 cc (6 cylinders), 1985 Maserati 228 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Maserati 228 (252 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 63 more horse power than 2002 Mazda RX-8. (189 HP @ 7000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1985 Maserati 228 should accelerate faster than 2002 Mazda RX-8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 125 kg more than 1985 Maserati 228.
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, 1985 Maserati 228 (365 Nm @ 2900 RPM) has 145 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Mazda RX-8. (220 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1985 Maserati 228 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Mazda RX-8.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Maserati 228 | 2002 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Maserati | Mazda |
| Model | 228 | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2790 cc | 2615 cc |
| Engine Type | V | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 252 HP | 189 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 365 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2900 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1265 kg | 1390 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2710 mm |
