2004 Mazda RX-8 vs. 1980 Mercedes-Benz G
To start off, 2004 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Mercedes-Benz G. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Mercedes-Benz G would be higher. At 2,616 cc, 2004 Mazda RX-8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mazda RX-8 (189 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 64 more horse power than 1980 Mercedes-Benz G. (125 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1980 Mercedes-Benz G. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Mercedes-Benz G weights approximately 538 kg more than 2004 Mazda RX-8.
Because 1980 Mercedes-Benz G is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2004 Mazda RX-8. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 Mercedes-Benz G 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, 2004 Mazda RX-8 (220 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Mercedes-Benz G. (192 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2004 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Mercedes-Benz G.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mazda RX-8 | 1980 Mercedes-Benz G | |
| Make | Mazda | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | RX-8 | G |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Coupe | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2616 cc | 2299 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 125 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 192 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1392 kg | 1930 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1940 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2860 mm |
