2008 Mazda RX-8 vs. 1985 Mazda RX-7
To start off, 2008 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Mazda RX-7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Mazda RX-7 would be higher. At 2,292 cc, 1985 Mazda RX-7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda RX-8 (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 1985 Mazda RX-7. (165 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1985 Mazda RX-7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 417 kg more than 1985 Mazda RX-7. 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. Let's talk about torque, 1985 Mazda RX-7 (225 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 9 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda RX-8. (216 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 1985 Mazda RX-7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mazda RX-8.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda RX-8 | 1985 Mazda RX-7 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | RX-8 | RX-7 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1985 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1308 cc | 2292 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 232 HP | 165 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 216 Nm | 225 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1329 kg | 912 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2430 mm |
