2008 Audi S8 vs. 1996 Mazda RX-7
To start off, 2008 Audi S8 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mazda RX-7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mazda RX-7 would be higher. At 5,204 cc (10 cylinders), 2008 Audi S8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Audi S8 (444 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 206 more horse power than 1996 Mazda RX-7. (238 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Audi S8 should accelerate faster than 1996 Mazda RX-7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Audi S8 weights approximately 638 kg more than 1996 Mazda RX-7. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Audi S8 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Mazda RX-7. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Audi S8 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, 2008 Audi S8 (540 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 244 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mazda RX-7. (296 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2008 Audi S8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mazda RX-7.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi S8 | 1996 Mazda RX-7 | |
| Make | Audi | Mazda |
| Model | S8 | RX-7 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5204 cc | 2616 cc |
| Engine Type | V | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 444 HP | 238 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 540 Nm | 296 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | AWD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1940 kg | 1302 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1700 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 77 L |
