2002 Mazda RX-8 vs. 1989 Oldsmobile Cutlass
To start off, 2002 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Oldsmobile Cutlass. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Oldsmobile Cutlass would be higher. At 3,135 cc (6 cylinders), 1989 Oldsmobile Cutlass is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mazda RX-8 (238 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 100 more horse power than 1989 Oldsmobile Cutlass. (138 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1989 Oldsmobile Cutlass. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Oldsmobile Cutlass weights approximately 152 kg more than 2002 Mazda RX-8.
Because 2002 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 2002 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Oldsmobile Cutlass, 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, 1989 Oldsmobile Cutlass (230 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 19 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Mazda RX-8. (211 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 1989 Oldsmobile Cutlass will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Mazda RX-8. 1989 Oldsmobile Cutlass has automatic transmission and 2002 Mazda RX-8 has manual transmission. 2002 Mazda RX-8 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1989 Oldsmobile Cutlass will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Mazda RX-8 | 1989 Oldsmobile Cutlass | |
| Make | Mazda | Oldsmobile |
| Model | RX-8 | Cutlass |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2616 cc | 3135 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 238 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8200 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 211 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1338 kg | 1490 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4930 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2740 mm |
