2003 Mazda RX-8 vs. 1983 Mitsubishi Colt
To start off, 2003 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Mitsubishi Colt. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Mitsubishi Colt would be higher. At 1,439 cc (4 cylinders), 1983 Mitsubishi Colt is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mazda RX-8 (228 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 158 more horse power than 1983 Mitsubishi Colt. (70 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1983 Mitsubishi Colt. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 501 kg more than 1983 Mitsubishi Colt. 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, 1983 Mitsubishi Colt, 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, 2003 Mazda RX-8 (211 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 109 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Mitsubishi Colt. (102 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2003 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Mitsubishi Colt.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mazda RX-8 | 1983 Mitsubishi Colt | |
| Make | Mazda | Mitsubishi |
| Model | RX-8 | Colt |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1983 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1308 cc | 1439 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 211 Nm | 102 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1425 kg | 924 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4120 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1600 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2390 mm |
