1985 Mazda 121 vs. 2008 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2008 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Mazda 121. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Mazda 121 would be higher. At 1,308 cc, 2008 Mazda RX-8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda RX-8 (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 177 more horse power than 1985 Mazda 121. (55 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1985 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 604 kg more than 1985 Mazda 121. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 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 2008 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1985 Mazda 121, 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, 2008 Mazda RX-8 (216 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 128 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Mazda 121. (88 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
1985 Mazda 121 | 2008 Mazda RX-8 | |
Make | Mazda | Mazda |
Model | 121 | RX-8 |
Year Released | 1985 | 2008 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1138 cc | 1308 cc |
Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
Horse Power | 55 HP | 232 HP |
Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 8500 RPM |
Torque | 88 Nm | 216 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 725 kg | 1329 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3480 mm | 4430 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1610 mm | 1780 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1350 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2370 mm | 2710 mm |