1997 Jeep Wrangler vs. 2011 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2011 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Jeep Wrangler. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Jeep Wrangler would be higher. At 3,964 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Jeep Wrangler is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mazda RX-8 (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 57 more horse power than 1997 Jeep Wrangler. (175 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1997 Jeep Wrangler. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Jeep Wrangler weights approximately 85 kg more than 2011 Mazda RX-8.
Because 1997 Jeep Wrangler is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2011 Mazda RX-8. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Jeep Wrangler 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, 1997 Jeep Wrangler (291 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 76 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Mazda RX-8. (215 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 1997 Jeep Wrangler will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Mazda RX-8.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Jeep Wrangler | 2011 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Jeep | Mazda |
| Model | Wrangler | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2011 |
| Body Type | SUV | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3964 cc | 1300 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 232 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 8500 RPM |
| Torque | 291 Nm | 215 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1475 kg | 1390 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3890 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1341 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2380 mm | 2703 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 72 L | 64 L |
