2008 Mazda RX-8 vs. 1962 Porsche 356
To start off, 2008 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 46 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1962 Porsche 356. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1962 Porsche 356 would be higher. At 1,582 cc (4 cylinders), 1962 Porsche 356 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda RX-8 (189 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 115 more horse power than 1962 Porsche 356. (74 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1962 Porsche 356. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 564 kg more than 1962 Porsche 356. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda RX-8 | 1962 Porsche 356 | |
| Make | Mazda | Porsche |
| Model | RX-8 | 356 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1962 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1308 cc | 1582 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1422 kg | 858 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4020 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2130 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 52 L |
