2005 Mazda RX-8 vs. 1988 Nissan Micra
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 Nissan Micra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Nissan Micra would be higher. At 1,308 cc, 2005 Mazda RX-8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mazda RX-8 (189 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 140 more horse power than 1988 Nissan Micra. (49 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1988 Nissan Micra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 691 kg more than 1988 Nissan Micra. 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, 1988 Nissan Micra, 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 147 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Nissan Micra. (73 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2005 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Nissan Micra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mazda RX-8 | 1988 Nissan Micra | |
| Make | Mazda | Nissan |
| Model | RX-8 | Micra |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1308 cc | 988 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 49 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 73 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1356 kg | 665 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 3770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1570 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2310 mm |
