2005 Mazda RX-8 vs. 1987 Toyota Corolla
To start off, 2005 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Toyota Corolla. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Toyota Corolla would be higher. At 2,614 cc, 2005 Mazda RX-8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mazda RX-8 (189 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 115 more horse power than 1987 Toyota Corolla. (74 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1987 Toyota Corolla. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 465 kg more than 1987 Toyota Corolla. 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, 1987 Toyota Corolla, 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 120 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Toyota Corolla. (100 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2005 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Toyota Corolla.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mazda RX-8 | 1987 Toyota Corolla | |
| Make | Mazda | Toyota |
| Model | RX-8 | Corolla |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1987 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2614 cc | 1295 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 100 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4200 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 | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1390 kg | 925 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2440 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 70 L |
