2008 Mazda RX-8 vs. 1981 Nissan Cherry
To start off, 2008 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Nissan Cherry. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Nissan Cherry would be higher. At 1,308 cc, 2008 Mazda RX-8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda RX-8 (228 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 169 more horse power than 1981 Nissan Cherry. (59 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1981 Nissan Cherry. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 600 kg more than 1981 Nissan Cherry. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 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 2008 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 Nissan Cherry, 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, 2008 Mazda RX-8 (211 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 115 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Nissan Cherry. (96 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Nissan Cherry. 1981 Nissan Cherry has automatic transmission and 2008 Mazda RX-8 has manual transmission. 2008 Mazda RX-8 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1981 Nissan Cherry will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Mazda RX-8 | 1981 Nissan Cherry | |
Make | Mazda | Nissan |
Model | RX-8 | Cherry |
Year Released | 2008 | 1981 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1308 cc | 1270 cc |
Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
Horse Power | 228 HP | 59 HP |
Engine RPM | 8200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 211 Nm | 96 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1425 kg | 825 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 3900 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1610 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1370 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2400 mm |