2004 Mazda RX-8 vs. 1981 Mercedes-Benz G
To start off, 2004 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Mercedes-Benz G. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 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 1981 Mercedes-Benz G. (125 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1981 Mercedes-Benz G. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Mercedes-Benz G weights approximately 488 kg more than 2004 Mazda RX-8.
Because 1981 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, 1981 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 27 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Mercedes-Benz G. (193 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2004 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Mercedes-Benz G.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mazda RX-8 | 1981 Mercedes-Benz G | |
| Make | Mazda | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | RX-8 | G |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Coupe | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2616 cc | 2307 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 125 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 193 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 | 1880 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4240 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1940 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2410 mm |
