2006 Mazda RX-8 vs. 1976 Pontiac Trans Am
To start off, 2006 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Pontiac Trans Am. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Pontiac Trans Am would be higher. At 6,556 cc (8 cylinders), 1976 Pontiac Trans Am is equipped with a bigger engine.
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, 1976 Pontiac Trans Am (434 Nm) has 223 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda RX-8. (211 Nm). This means 1976 Pontiac Trans Am will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda RX-8.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mazda RX-8 | 1976 Pontiac Trans Am | |
| Make | Mazda | Pontiac |
| Model | RX-8 | Trans Am |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1976 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1308 cc | 6556 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | V |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 211 Nm | 434 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 104.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 95.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.1:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 5040 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1260 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2750 mm |
