2008 Mazda RX-8 vs. 1989 Nissan Santana

To start off, 2008 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Nissan Santana. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Nissan Santana would be higher. At 1,781 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Nissan Santana is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda RX-8 (189 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 96 more horse power than 1989 Nissan Santana. (93 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1989 Nissan Santana. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 348 kg more than 1989 Nissan Santana. 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, 1989 Nissan Santana, 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 (220 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 78 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Nissan Santana. (142 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Nissan Santana.

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