2003 Mazda RX-8 vs. 1989 Nissan Prairie
To start off, 2003 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Nissan Prairie. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Nissan Prairie would be higher. At 1,974 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Nissan Prairie is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mazda RX-8 (228 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 130 more horse power than 1989 Nissan Prairie. (98 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1989 Nissan Prairie. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 235 kg more than 1989 Nissan Prairie. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1989 Nissan Prairie is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 Mazda RX-8. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Nissan Prairie will offer significantly more control. 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 47 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Nissan Prairie. (164 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2003 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Nissan Prairie. 1989 Nissan Prairie has automatic transmission and 2003 Mazda RX-8 has manual transmission. 2003 Mazda RX-8 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1989 Nissan Prairie will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mazda RX-8 | 1989 Nissan Prairie | |
| Make | Mazda | Nissan |
| Model | RX-8 | Prairie |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1989 |
| Engine Size | 1308 cc | 1974 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 98 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 211 Nm | 164 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1425 kg | 1190 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1610 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2520 mm |
