1997 Hyundai Pony 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 Hyundai Pony. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Hyundai Pony would be higher. At 1,341 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Hyundai Pony is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda RX-8 (228 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 145 more horse power than 1997 Hyundai Pony. (83 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1997 Hyundai Pony. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 498 kg more than 1997 Hyundai Pony. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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 Hyundai Pony, 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, 2006 Mazda RX-8 (211 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 92 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Hyundai Pony. (119 Nm @ 3100 RPM). This means 2006 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Hyundai Pony.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Hyundai Pony | 2006 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Hyundai | Mazda |
| Model | Pony | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1341 cc | 1308 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 83 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 8200 RPM |
| Torque | 119 Nm | 211 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3100 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 71.5 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.5 mm | 85 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 930 kg | 1428 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4110 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1350 mm |
