1988 Ford Meteor vs. 2008 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2008 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Ford Meteor. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Ford Meteor would be higher. At 1,597 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Ford Meteor is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda RX-8 (189 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 118 more horse power than 1988 Ford Meteor. (71 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1988 Ford Meteor.
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, 1988 Ford Meteor, 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 (220 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 99 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Ford Meteor. (121 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Ford Meteor.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Ford Meteor | 2008 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Meteor | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1597 cc | 1308 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 71 HP | 189 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 121 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2710 mm |
