1991 Ford Thunderbird 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 Thunderbird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Ford Thunderbird would be higher. At 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 1991 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda RX-8 (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 94 more horse power than 1991 Ford Thunderbird. (138 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1991 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 281 kg more than 2008 Mazda RX-8.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1991 Ford Thunderbird (291 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda RX-8. (216 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 1991 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mazda RX-8.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Ford Thunderbird | 2008 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Thunderbird | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3791 cc | 1308 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 232 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 8500 RPM |
| Torque | 291 Nm | 216 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1610 kg | 1329 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 60 L |
