1996 Mazda Levante 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 Mazda Levante. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mazda Levante would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Mazda Levante is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda RX-8 (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 94 more horse power than 1996 Mazda Levante. (138 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1996 Mazda Levante.
Because 1996 Mazda Levante is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 Mazda RX-8. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Mazda Levante will offer significantly more control. 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 26 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mazda Levante. (190 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mazda Levante. 1996 Mazda Levante has automatic transmission and 2009 Mazda RX-8 has manual transmission. 2009 Mazda RX-8 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Mazda Levante will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mazda Levante | 2009 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | Levante | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1306 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 232 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 8500 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 216 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 3820 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1700 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 2710 mm |
