2006 Mazda RX-8 vs. 1996 Nissan Almera
To start off, 2006 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Nissan Almera. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Nissan Almera would be higher. At 1,392 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Nissan Almera is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda RX-8 (108 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 1996 Nissan Almera. (86 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1996 Nissan Almera.
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, 1996 Nissan Almera, 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 24 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Nissan Almera. (116 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Nissan Almera. 2006 Mazda RX-8 has automatic transmission and 1996 Nissan Almera has manual transmission. 1996 Nissan Almera will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Mazda RX-8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mazda RX-8 | 1996 Nissan Almera | |
| Make | Mazda | Nissan |
| Model | RX-8 | Almera |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1308 cc | 1392 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 86 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 116 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4130 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2540 mm |
