1989 Ford Sierra vs. 2011 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2011 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Ford Sierra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Ford Sierra would be higher. At 2,933 cc (6 cylinders), 1989 Ford Sierra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mazda RX-8 (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 84 more horse power than 1989 Ford Sierra. (148 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1989 Ford Sierra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 95 kg more than 1989 Ford Sierra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1989 Ford Sierra is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2011 Mazda RX-8. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Ford Sierra will offer significantly more control. 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 Ford Sierra (238 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 23 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Mazda RX-8. (215 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 1989 Ford Sierra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Mazda RX-8.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Ford Sierra | 2011 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Sierra | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2933 cc | 1300 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 232 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 8500 RPM |
| Torque | 238 Nm | 215 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1295 kg | 1390 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1341 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2703 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 64 L |
