1989 Ford Fiesta vs. 2008 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2008 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Ford Fiesta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Ford Fiesta would be higher. At 1,308 cc, 2008 Mazda RX-8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda RX-8 (189 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 136 more horse power than 1989 Ford Fiesta. (53 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1989 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 602 kg more than 1989 Ford Fiesta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1989 Ford Fiesta, 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 134 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Ford Fiesta. (86 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Ford Fiesta.
Compare all specifications:
1989 Ford Fiesta | 2008 Mazda RX-8 | |
Make | Ford | Mazda |
Model | Fiesta | RX-8 |
Year Released | 1989 | 2008 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1118 cc | 1308 cc |
Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
Horse Power | 53 HP | 189 HP |
Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 7000 RPM |
Torque | 86 Nm | 220 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 820 kg | 1422 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3750 mm | 4440 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1610 mm | 1780 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1350 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2710 mm |