1991 Ford Probe vs. 2009 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2009 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Ford Probe. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Ford Probe would be higher. At 2,184 cc (4 cylinders), 1991 Ford Probe is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda RX-8 (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 124 more horse power than 1991 Ford Probe. (108 HP @ 4700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1991 Ford Probe. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Ford Probe weights approximately 125 kg more than 2009 Mazda RX-8.
Because 2009 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 2009 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1991 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, 2009 Mazda RX-8 (216 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 37 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Ford Probe. (179 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Ford Probe.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Ford Probe | 2009 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Probe | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2184 cc | 1308 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 232 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4700 RPM | 8500 RPM |
| Torque | 179 Nm | 216 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| 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 | 1125 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2710 mm |
