2006 Mazda RX-8 vs. 1981 Nissan Cherry
To start off, 2006 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Nissan Cherry. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Nissan Cherry would be higher. At 1,308 cc, 2006 Mazda RX-8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda RX-8 (108 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 1981 Nissan Cherry. (59 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1981 Nissan Cherry.
Because 2006 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 2006 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 Nissan Cherry, 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, 2006 Mazda RX-8 (140 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 44 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Nissan Cherry. (96 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2006 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Nissan Cherry.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mazda RX-8 | 1981 Nissan Cherry | |
| Make | Mazda | Nissan |
| Model | RX-8 | Cherry |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1308 cc | 1270 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 3900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1610 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2400 mm |
