1990 Fiat Tempra vs. 2008 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2008 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Fiat Tempra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Fiat Tempra would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 1990 Fiat Tempra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda RX-8 (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 117 more horse power than 1990 Fiat Tempra. (115 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1990 Fiat Tempra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 149 kg more than 1990 Fiat Tempra. 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, 1990 Fiat Tempra, 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 (216 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Fiat Tempra. (156 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Fiat Tempra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 Fiat Tempra | 2008 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Fiat | Mazda |
| Model | Tempra | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 1990 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1308 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 232 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 8500 RPM |
| Torque | 156 Nm | 216 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1180 kg | 1329 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4360 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2710 mm |
