1989 Ford Probe vs. 2005 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2005 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Ford Probe. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Ford Probe would be higher. At 2,184 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Ford Probe is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mazda RX-8 (228 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 120 more horse power than 1989 Ford Probe. (108 HP @ 4700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1989 Ford Probe. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 175 kg more than 1989 Ford Probe. 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, 1989 Ford Probe, 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 31 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Ford Probe. (180 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2005 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Ford Probe.
Compare all specifications:
1989 Ford Probe | 2005 Mazda RX-8 | |
Make | Ford | Mazda |
Model | Probe | RX-8 |
Year Released | 1989 | 2005 |
Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2184 cc | 1307 cc |
Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
Horse Power | 108 HP | 228 HP |
Engine RPM | 4700 RPM | 8200 RPM |
Torque | 180 Nm | 211 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 1425 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4450 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1780 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1350 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2680 mm |