1996 Lancia Kappa 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 Lancia Kappa. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Lancia Kappa would be higher. At 2,451 cc (5 cylinders), 1996 Lancia Kappa is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda RX-8 (189 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 1996 Lancia Kappa. (173 HP @ 6100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1996 Lancia Kappa. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Lancia Kappa weights approximately 100 kg more than 2009 Mazda RX-8.
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 Lancia Kappa, 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, 1996 Lancia Kappa (230 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda RX-8. (220 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1996 Lancia Kappa will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda RX-8.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Lancia Kappa | 2009 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Lancia | Mazda |
| Model | Kappa | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2451 cc | 1308 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 173 HP | 189 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83.1 mm | 78.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.4 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1520 kg | 1420 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4700 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2710 mm |
