2006 Mazda RX-8 vs. 1998 Rover 400
To start off, 2006 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Rover 400. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Rover 400 would be higher. At 1,394 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Rover 400 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda RX-8 (228 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 126 more horse power than 1998 Rover 400. (102 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1998 Rover 400. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 308 kg more than 1998 Rover 400. 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, 1998 Rover 400, 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 29 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Rover 400. (182 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2006 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Rover 400.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mazda RX-8 | 1998 Rover 400 | |
| Make | Mazda | Rover |
| Model | RX-8 | 400 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1308 cc | 1394 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 102 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 211 Nm | 182 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 79 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1428 kg | 1120 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2630 mm |
