2005 Mazda RX-8 vs. 1996 Mazda RX-01
To start off, 2005 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mazda RX-01. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mazda RX-01 would be higher. At 2,615 cc, 1996 Mazda RX-01 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mazda RX-01 (217 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 2005 Mazda RX-8. (197 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mazda RX-01 should accelerate faster than 2005 Mazda RX-8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 285 kg more than 1996 Mazda RX-01.
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, 1996 Mazda RX-01, 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 2 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mazda RX-01. (220 Nm @ 6000 RPM). This means 2005 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mazda RX-01. 2005 Mazda RX-8 has automatic transmission and 1996 Mazda RX-01 has manual transmission. 1996 Mazda RX-01 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 | 1996 Mazda RX-01 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | RX-8 | RX-01 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1311 cc | 2615 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 217 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 8500 RPM |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1100 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2350 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 55 L |
