2003 Mazda RX-8 vs. 1983 Toyota Corolla
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 Toyota Corolla. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Toyota Corolla would be higher. At 1,308 cc, 2003 Mazda RX-8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mazda RX-8 (228 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 153 more horse power than 1983 Toyota Corolla. (75 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1983 Toyota Corolla. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 585 kg more than 1983 Toyota Corolla. 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 Toyota Corolla, 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 104 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Toyota Corolla. (107 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2003 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Toyota Corolla.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mazda RX-8 | 1983 Toyota Corolla | |
| Make | Mazda | Toyota |
| Model | RX-8 | Corolla |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1983 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1308 cc | 1293 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 75 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 211 Nm | 107 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.3:1 |
| Top Speed | 235 km/hour | 160 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1425 kg | 840 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2440 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 50 L |
