1998 Ford Focus vs. 2011 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2011 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Ford Focus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Ford Focus would be higher. At 1,388 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Ford Focus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mazda RX-8 (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 103 more horse power than 1998 Ford Focus. (129 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1998 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 275 kg more than 1998 Ford Focus. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 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 2011 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Ford Focus, 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, 2011 Mazda RX-8 (215 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 32 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Focus. (183 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2011 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Focus.
Compare all specifications:
1998 Ford Focus | 2011 Mazda RX-8 | |
Make | Ford | Mazda |
Model | Focus | RX-8 |
Year Released | 1998 | 2011 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1388 cc | 1300 cc |
Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
Horse Power | 129 HP | 232 HP |
Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 8500 RPM |
Torque | 183 Nm | 215 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1115 kg | 1390 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4460 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1341 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2703 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 64 L |