2008 Mazda RX-8 vs. 1983 Oldsmobile Omega
To start off, 2008 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Oldsmobile Omega. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Oldsmobile Omega would be higher. At 2,474 cc (4 cylinders), 1983 Oldsmobile Omega is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda RX-8 (228 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 139 more horse power than 1983 Oldsmobile Omega. (89 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1983 Oldsmobile Omega. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 295 kg more than 1983 Oldsmobile Omega. 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, 1983 Oldsmobile Omega, 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 28 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Oldsmobile Omega. (183 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Oldsmobile Omega. 1983 Oldsmobile Omega 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. 1983 Oldsmobile Omega will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda RX-8 | 1983 Oldsmobile Omega | |
| Make | Mazda | Oldsmobile |
| Model | RX-8 | Omega |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1983 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1308 cc | 2474 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 211 Nm | 183 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1425 kg | 1130 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4610 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2670 mm |
