1996 Honda Civic vs. 2008 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2008 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Honda Civic. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Honda Civic would be higher. At 1,590 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Honda Civic is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda RX-8 (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 128 more horse power than 1996 Honda Civic. (104 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1996 Honda Civic. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 229 kg more than 1996 Honda Civic. 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, 1996 Honda Civic, 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 76 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Honda Civic. (140 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Honda Civic.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Honda Civic | 2008 Mazda RX-8 | |
Make | Honda | Mazda |
Model | Civic | RX-8 |
Year Released | 1996 | 2008 |
Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1590 cc | 1308 cc |
Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
Horse Power | 104 HP | 232 HP |
Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 8500 RPM |
Torque | 140 Nm | 216 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1100 kg | 1329 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4430 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1780 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1350 mm |