2005 Mazda RX-8 vs. 1988 Mazda RX-7
To start off, 2005 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Mazda RX-7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Mazda RX-7 would be higher. At 2,616 cc, 1988 Mazda RX-7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mazda RX-8 (228 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 80 more horse power than 1988 Mazda RX-7. (148 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1988 Mazda RX-7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Mazda RX-7 weights approximately 165 kg more than 2005 Mazda RX-8.
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 (211 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Mazda RX-7. (186 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2005 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Mazda RX-7.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mazda RX-8 | 1988 Mazda RX-7 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | RX-8 | RX-7 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1308 cc | 2616 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8200 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 211 Nm | 186 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1065 kg | 1230 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2440 mm |
