2008 Mazda RX-8 vs. 1987 Nissan Vanette
To start off, 2008 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Nissan Vanette. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Nissan Vanette would be higher. At 1,952 cc (4 cylinders), 1987 Nissan Vanette is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda RX-8 (232 HP) has 172 more horse power than 1987 Nissan Vanette. (60 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1987 Nissan Vanette. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 Nissan Vanette weights approximately 131 kg more than 2008 Mazda RX-8.
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, 2008 Mazda RX-8 (216 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 93 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Nissan Vanette. (123 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Nissan Vanette.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda RX-8 | 1987 Nissan Vanette | |
| Make | Mazda | Nissan |
| Model | RX-8 | Vanette |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1987 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Van |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1308 cc | 1952 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 232 HP | 60 HP |
| Torque | 216 Nm | 123 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1329 kg | 1460 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 3990 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1940 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2080 mm |
