2005 Mazda RX-8 vs. 1983 Nissan Stanza

To start off, 2005 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Nissan Stanza. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Nissan Stanza would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 1983 Nissan Stanza is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mazda RX-8 (197 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 116 more horse power than 1983 Nissan Stanza. (81 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1983 Nissan Stanza. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 505 kg more than 1983 Nissan Stanza. 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, 1983 Nissan Stanza, 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 (222 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 92 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Nissan Stanza. (130 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2005 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Nissan Stanza. 2005 Mazda RX-8 has automatic transmission and 1983 Nissan Stanza has manual transmission. 1983 Nissan Stanza 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 1983 Nissan Stanza
Make Mazda Nissan
Model RX-8 Stanza
Year Released 2005 1983
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1311 cc 1598 cc
Engine Type dual-disk rotary in-line
Horse Power 197 HP 81 HP
Engine RPM 4000 RPM 5200 RPM
Torque 222 Nm 130 Nm
Torque RPM 5500 RPM 3200 RPM
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Vehicle Weight 1385 kg 880 kg
Vehicle Length 4430 mm 4310 mm
Vehicle Width 1780 mm 1670 mm
Vehicle Height 1350 mm 1390 mm
Wheelbase Size 2680 mm 2480 mm