1989 Honda Accord vs. 2006 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2006 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Honda Accord. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Honda Accord would be higher. At 1,955 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Honda Accord is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda RX-8 (108 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 1989 Honda Accord. (99 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1989 Honda Accord.
Because 2006 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 2006 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Honda Accord, 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 Honda Accord (147 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 7 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda RX-8. (140 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 1989 Honda Accord will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda RX-8. 2006 Mazda RX-8 has automatic transmission and 1989 Honda Accord has manual transmission. 1989 Honda Accord will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Mazda RX-8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Honda Accord | 2006 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Honda | Mazda |
| Model | Accord | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1955 cc | 1308 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 99 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 8200 RPM |
| Torque | 147 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2710 mm |
