1989 Dodge Shadow vs. 2010 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2010 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Dodge Shadow. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Dodge Shadow would be higher. At 2,213 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Dodge Shadow is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Mazda RX-8 (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 57 more horse power than 1989 Dodge Shadow. (175 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1989 Dodge Shadow. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 102 kg more than 1989 Dodge Shadow. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2010 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 2010 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Dodge Shadow, 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, 1989 Dodge Shadow (278 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 63 more torque (in Nm) than 2010 Mazda RX-8. (215 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 1989 Dodge Shadow will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2010 Mazda RX-8.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Dodge Shadow | 2010 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Dodge | Mazda |
| Model | Shadow | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2213 cc | 1300 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 232 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 8500 RPM |
| Torque | 278 Nm | 215 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1288 kg | 1390 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1341 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2700 mm |
