1993 Ford Probe vs. 2003 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2003 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1993 Ford Probe. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1993 Ford Probe would be higher. At 2,183 cc (4 cylinders), 1993 Ford Probe is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mazda RX-8 (228 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 120 more horse power than 1993 Ford Probe. (108 HP @ 4700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1993 Ford Probe. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 175 kg more than 1993 Ford Probe. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 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 2003 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1993 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, 2003 Mazda RX-8 (211 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 32 more torque (in Nm) than 1993 Ford Probe. (179 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1993 Ford Probe.
Compare all specifications:
| 1993 Ford Probe | 2003 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Probe | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 1993 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2183 cc | 1308 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4700 RPM | 8200 RPM |
| Torque | 179 Nm | 211 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| 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 | 1425 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2710 mm |
