1999 Opel Zafira vs. 2011 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2011 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Opel Zafira. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Opel Zafira would be higher. At 1,910 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Opel Zafira is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mazda RX-8 (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 147 more horse power than 1999 Opel Zafira. (85 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1999 Opel Zafira. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Opel Zafira weights approximately 130 kg more than 2011 Mazda RX-8.
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, 1999 Opel Zafira, 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 27 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Opel Zafira. (188 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2011 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Opel Zafira.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Opel Zafira | 2011 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Opel | Mazda |
| Model | Zafira | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1910 cc | 1300 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 232 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 8500 RPM |
| Torque | 188 Nm | 215 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1520 kg | 1390 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1690 mm | 1341 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2703 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 58 L | 64 L |
