1999 Ford Telstar vs. 2003 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2003 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Ford Telstar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Ford Telstar would be higher. At 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 Ford Telstar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mazda RX-8 (228 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 1999 Ford Telstar. (163 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1999 Ford Telstar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 150 kg more than 1999 Ford Telstar. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 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 2003 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Ford Telstar, 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, 1999 Ford Telstar (217 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 6 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda RX-8. (211 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 1999 Ford Telstar will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda RX-8.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Ford Telstar | 2003 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Telstar | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 1308 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 8200 RPM |
| Torque | 217 Nm | 211 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1275 kg | 1425 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1350 mm |
