1988 Honda Shuttle 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 Honda Shuttle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Honda Shuttle would be higher. At 1,396 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Honda Shuttle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mazda RX-8 (228 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 138 more horse power than 1988 Honda Shuttle. (90 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1988 Honda Shuttle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 125 kg more than 1988 Honda Shuttle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 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 2005 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Honda Shuttle, 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, 2005 Mazda RX-8 (211 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 99 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Honda Shuttle. (112 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2005 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Honda Shuttle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Honda Shuttle | 2005 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Honda | Mazda |
| Model | Shuttle | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1396 cc | 1308 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 8200 RPM |
| Torque | 112 Nm | 211 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 940 kg | 1065 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2840 mm |
