1988 Dodge Spirit vs. 2007 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2007 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Dodge Spirit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Dodge Spirit would be higher. At 2,972 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 Dodge Spirit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mazda RX-8 (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 91 more horse power than 1988 Dodge Spirit. (141 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1988 Dodge Spirit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Dodge Spirit weights approximately 174 kg more than 2007 Mazda RX-8.
Because 2007 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 2007 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Dodge Spirit, 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, 1988 Dodge Spirit (232 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Mazda RX-8. (216 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 1988 Dodge Spirit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Mazda RX-8.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Dodge Spirit | 2007 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Dodge | Mazda |
| Model | Spirit | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2972 cc | 1306 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 232 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 8500 RPM |
| Torque | 232 Nm | 216 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93.1 mm | 73 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73 mm | 85 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1354 kg | 1180 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4610 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2710 mm |
