1997 Chevrolet Cavalier vs. 2006 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2006 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier would be higher. At 2,190 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier (115 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 2006 Mazda RX-8. (108 HP @ 8200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier should accelerate faster than 2006 Mazda RX-8.
Because 2006 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 2006 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier, 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, 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier (183 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 43 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda RX-8. (140 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda RX-8.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier | 2006 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mazda |
| Model | Cavalier | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2190 cc | 1308 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 8200 RPM |
| Torque | 183 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2710 mm |
