2005 Mazda RX-8 vs. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2005 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mercedes-Benz A would be higher. At 1,689 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mazda RX-8 (228 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 140 more horse power than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (88 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 30 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, 1997 Mercedes-Benz A, 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 (211 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 31 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (180 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 2005 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A has automatic transmission and 2005 Mazda RX-8 has manual transmission. 2005 Mazda RX-8 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mazda RX-8 | 1997 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Mazda | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | RX-8 | A |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1308 cc | 1689 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 88 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8200 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 211 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 19.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 235 km/hour | 173 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.4 seconds | 13.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1065 kg | 1095 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 54 L |
