2005 Mazda RX-8 vs. 1996 Mercedes-Benz V
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 Mercedes-Benz V. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz V 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 50 more horse power than 1996 Mercedes-Benz V. (139 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1996 Mercedes-Benz V. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz V weights approximately 610 kg more than 2005 Mazda RX-8.
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 Mercedes-Benz V, 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 9 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mercedes-Benz V. (211 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2005 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mercedes-Benz V.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mazda RX-8 | 1996 Mercedes-Benz V | |
| Make | Mazda | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | RX-8 | V |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2614 cc | 2295 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 139 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 211 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 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 | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1390 kg | 2000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1850 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 3010 mm |
