1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2008 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2008 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata would be higher. At 1,839 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda RX-8 (228 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 118 more horse power than 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (110 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 305 kg more than 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 Mazda MX-5 Miata (241 Nm) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda RX-8. (211 Nm). This means 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mazda RX-8.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 2008 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1839 cc | 1308 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 110 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 8200 RPM |
| Torque | 241 Nm | 211 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1120 kg | 1425 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3950 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2710 mm |
