2006 Mazda RX-8 vs. 1986 Subaru 1.8
To start off, 2006 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Subaru 1.8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Subaru 1.8 would be higher. At 1,781 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 Subaru 1.8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda RX-8 (190 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 1986 Subaru 1.8. (134 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1986 Subaru 1.8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 290 kg more than 1986 Subaru 1.8. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1986 Subaru 1.8 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2006 Mazda RX-8. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 Subaru 1.8 will offer significantly more control. 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 (220 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 23 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Subaru 1.8. (197 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2006 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Subaru 1.8.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mazda RX-8 | 1986 Subaru 1.8 | |
| Make | Mazda | Subaru |
| Model | RX-8 | 1.8 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1986 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1308 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | boxer |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 197 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 7.7:1 |
| Top Speed | 223 km/hour | 190 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1420 kg | 1130 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2470 mm |
