2006 Mazda RX-8 vs. 1985 Mazda 323
To start off, 2006 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 1,720 cc (4 cylinders), 1985 Mazda 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda RX-8 (228 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 172 more horse power than 1985 Mazda 323. (56 HP @ 4700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1985 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 462 kg more than 1985 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1985 Mazda 323, 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 (211 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 104 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Mazda 323. (107 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
2006 Mazda RX-8 | 1985 Mazda 323 | |
Make | Mazda | Mazda |
Model | RX-8 | 323 |
Year Released | 2006 | 1985 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1308 cc | 1720 cc |
Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
Horse Power | 228 HP | 56 HP |
Engine RPM | 8200 RPM | 4700 RPM |
Torque | 211 Nm | 107 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1428 kg | 966 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4210 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1660 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1400 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2410 mm |