2007 Mazda RX-8 vs. 1981 Subaru DL
To start off, 2007 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Subaru DL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Subaru DL would be higher. At 1,306 cc, 2007 Mazda RX-8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mazda RX-8 (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 165 more horse power than 1981 Subaru DL. (67 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1981 Subaru DL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 360 kg more than 1981 Subaru DL. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2007 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 2007 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 Subaru DL, 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, 2007 Mazda RX-8 (216 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 115 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Subaru DL. (101 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2007 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Subaru DL.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Mazda RX-8 | 1981 Subaru DL | |
| Make | Mazda | Subaru |
| Model | RX-8 | DL |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1306 cc | 1298 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 232 HP | 67 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 216 Nm | 101 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1180 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2470 mm |
