1988 Ford Mustang vs. 2002 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2002 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Ford Mustang. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Ford Mustang would be higher. At 2,615 cc, 2002 Mazda RX-8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mazda RX-8 (189 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 100 more horse power than 1988 Ford Mustang. (89 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1988 Ford Mustang. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 136 kg more than 1988 Ford Mustang. 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, 2002 Mazda RX-8 (220 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 44 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Ford Mustang. (176 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2002 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Ford Mustang.
Compare all specifications:
1988 Ford Mustang | 2002 Mazda RX-8 | |
Make | Ford | Mazda |
Model | Mustang | RX-8 |
Year Released | 1988 | 2002 |
Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2301 cc | 2615 cc |
Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
Horse Power | 89 HP | 189 HP |
Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 7000 RPM |
Torque | 176 Nm | 220 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1254 kg | 1390 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4440 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1780 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1350 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2710 mm |