1991 Chevrolet Cavalier vs. 2008 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2008 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Chevrolet Cavalier. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Chevrolet Cavalier would be higher. At 2,189 cc (4 cylinders), 1991 Chevrolet Cavalier is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda RX-8 (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 138 more horse power than 1991 Chevrolet Cavalier. (94 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1991 Chevrolet Cavalier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 224 kg more than 1991 Chevrolet Cavalier. 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, 1991 Chevrolet Cavalier, 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 53 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Chevrolet Cavalier. (163 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Chevrolet Cavalier.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Chevrolet Cavalier | 2008 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mazda |
| Model | Cavalier | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2189 cc | 1308 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 94 HP | 232 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 8500 RPM |
| Torque | 163 Nm | 216 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1105 kg | 1329 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2710 mm |
