1998 Ford Puma vs. 2007 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2007 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Ford Puma. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Ford Puma would be higher. At 1,388 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Ford Puma is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mazda RX-8 (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 143 more horse power than 1998 Ford Puma. (89 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1998 Ford Puma. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 170 kg more than 1998 Ford Puma. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2007 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 2007 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Ford Puma, 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, 2007 Mazda RX-8 (216 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 91 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Puma. (125 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2007 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Puma.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Ford Puma | 2007 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Puma | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1388 cc | 1306 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 232 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 8500 RPM |
| Torque | 125 Nm | 216 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76 mm | 73 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76.5 mm | 85 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1010 kg | 1180 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3990 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 42 L | 60 L |
