1999 Audi S8 vs. 1978 Mazda RX-2
To start off, 1999 Audi S8 is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mazda RX-2. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mazda RX-2 would be higher. At 4,170 cc (8 cylinders), 1999 Audi S8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Audi S8 (247 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 129 more horse power than 1978 Mazda RX-2. (118 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Audi S8 should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda RX-2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Audi S8 weights approximately 790 kg more than 1978 Mazda RX-2. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1999 Audi S8 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 Mazda RX-2. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Audi S8 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, 1999 Audi S8 (330 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 173 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda RX-2. (157 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1999 Audi S8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mazda RX-2.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Audi S8 | 1978 Mazda RX-2 | |
| Make | Audi | Mazda |
| Model | S8 | RX-2 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4170 cc | 2290 cc |
| Engine Type | V | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 247 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 157 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Drive Type | AWD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1750 kg | 960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5040 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2480 mm |
