1996 Honda CRX vs. 2009 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2009 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Honda CRX. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Honda CRX would be higher. At 1,590 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Honda CRX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda RX-8 (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 101 more horse power than 1996 Honda CRX. (131 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1996 Honda CRX.
Because 2009 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 2009 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Honda CRX, 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, 2009 Mazda RX-8 (216 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 72 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Honda CRX. (144 Nm @ 5200 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Honda CRX.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Honda CRX | 2009 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Honda | Mazda |
| Model | CRX | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1590 cc | 1306 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 131 HP | 232 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 8500 RPM |
| Torque | 144 Nm | 216 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4010 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1260 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2380 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 64 L |
