2005 Mazda RX-8 vs. 1980 Lancia Gamma
To start off, 2005 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Lancia Gamma. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Lancia Gamma would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 1980 Lancia Gamma is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mazda RX-8 (189 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 72 more horse power than 1980 Lancia Gamma. (117 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1980 Lancia Gamma. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 36 kg more than 1980 Lancia Gamma. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 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 2005 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 Lancia Gamma, 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, 2005 Mazda RX-8 (220 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Lancia Gamma. (175 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2005 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Lancia Gamma. 1980 Lancia Gamma has automatic transmission and 2005 Mazda RX-8 has manual transmission. 2005 Mazda RX-8 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1980 Lancia Gamma will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mazda RX-8 | 1980 Lancia Gamma | |
| Make | Mazda | Lancia |
| Model | RX-8 | Gamma |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1308 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 117 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 175 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.9:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1356 kg | 1320 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 59 L |
