1991 Ford Tempo 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 Ford Tempo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Ford Tempo would be higher. At 2,305 cc (4 cylinders), 1991 Ford Tempo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda RX-8 (228 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 131 more horse power than 1991 Ford Tempo. (97 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1991 Ford Tempo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 275 kg more than 1991 Ford Tempo. 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 Ford Tempo, 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 (211 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 36 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Ford Tempo. (175 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Ford Tempo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Ford Tempo | 2008 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Tempo | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2305 cc | 1308 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 97 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 8200 RPM |
| Torque | 175 Nm | 211 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1150 kg | 1425 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2540 mm | 2710 mm |
