2006 Mazda RX-8 vs. 1996 Nissan Patrol
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 Patrol. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Nissan Patrol would be higher. At 2,826 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Nissan Patrol is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda RX-8 (228 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 137 more horse power than 1996 Nissan Patrol. (91 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1996 Nissan Patrol. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Nissan Patrol weights approximately 442 kg more than 2006 Mazda RX-8.
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 Patrol, 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 33 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Nissan Patrol. (178 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2006 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Nissan Patrol.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mazda RX-8 | 1996 Nissan Patrol | |
| Make | Mazda | Nissan |
| Model | RX-8 | Patrol |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1308 cc | 2826 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 91 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8200 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 211 Nm | 178 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1428 kg | 1870 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1940 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1820 mm |
