1988 Ferrari 348 vs. 2005 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2005 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Ferrari 348. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Ferrari 348 would be higher. At 3,404 cc (8 cylinders), 1988 Ferrari 348 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Ferrari 348 (295 HP @ 7200 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 2005 Mazda RX-8. (228 HP @ 8200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 Ferrari 348 should accelerate faster than 2005 Mazda RX-8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Ferrari 348 weights approximately 400 kg more than 2005 Mazda RX-8. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1988 Ferrari 348 (323 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 112 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mazda RX-8. (211 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 1988 Ferrari 348 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mazda RX-8.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Ferrari 348 | 2005 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Ferrari | Mazda |
| Model | 348 | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 3404 cc | 1308 cc |
| Engine Type | V | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 295 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7200 RPM | 8200 RPM |
| Torque | 323 Nm | 211 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.4:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1465 kg | 1065 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 95 L | 61 L |
