2008 Mazda RX-8 vs. 1986 Mazda 626
To start off, 2008 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Mazda 626. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Mazda 626 would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 Mazda 626 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda RX-8 (228 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 111 more horse power than 1986 Mazda 626. (117 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1986 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 343 kg more than 1986 Mazda 626. 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, 1986 Mazda 626, 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 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Mazda 626. (171 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Mazda 626.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Mazda RX-8 | 1986 Mazda 626 | |
Make | Mazda | Mazda |
Model | RX-8 | 626 |
Year Released | 2008 | 1986 |
Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1308 cc | 1998 cc |
Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
Horse Power | 228 HP | 117 HP |
Engine RPM | 8200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 211 Nm | 171 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
Top Speed | 230 km/hour | 196 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1425 kg | 1082 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4440 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1710 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1410 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2520 mm |