1994 Ford Probe vs. 2008 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2008 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1994 Ford Probe. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1994 Ford Probe would be higher. At 1,991 cc (4 cylinders), 1994 Ford Probe is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda RX-8 (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 117 more horse power than 1994 Ford Probe. (115 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1994 Ford Probe. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 93 kg more than 1994 Ford Probe. 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, 1994 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, 2008 Mazda RX-8 (216 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 46 more torque (in Nm) than 1994 Ford Probe. (170 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1994 Ford Probe.
Compare all specifications:
| 1994 Ford Probe | 2008 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Probe | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 1994 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 1308 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 232 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 8500 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 216 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1236 kg | 1329 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1350 mm |
