2005 Mazda RX-8 vs. 1980 Mitsubishi Sigma
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 Mitsubishi Sigma. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Mitsubishi Sigma would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 1980 Mitsubishi Sigma is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mazda RX-8 (197 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 111 more horse power than 1980 Mitsubishi Sigma. (86 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1980 Mitsubishi Sigma. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 355 kg more than 1980 Mitsubishi Sigma. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 (222 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 77 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Mitsubishi Sigma. (145 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2005 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Mitsubishi Sigma. 2005 Mazda RX-8 has automatic transmission and 1980 Mitsubishi Sigma has manual transmission. 1980 Mitsubishi Sigma will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Mazda RX-8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mazda RX-8 | 1980 Mitsubishi Sigma | |
| Make | Mazda | Mitsubishi |
| Model | RX-8 | Sigma |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1311 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 86 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1030 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2520 mm |
