2004 Mazda RX-8 vs. 1980 Talbot Horizon
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 Talbot Horizon. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Talbot Horizon 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 132 more horse power than 1980 Talbot Horizon. (57 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1980 Talbot Horizon. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 447 kg more than 1980 Talbot Horizon. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 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 2004 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 Talbot Horizon, 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, 2004 Mazda RX-8 (220 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 129 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Talbot Horizon. (91 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2004 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Talbot Horizon.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mazda RX-8 | 1980 Talbot Horizon | |
| Make | Mazda | Talbot |
| Model | RX-8 | Horizon |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2616 cc | 1118 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 57 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 91 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1392 kg | 945 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 3970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2530 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 47 L |
