2008 Mazda RX-8 vs. 1989 TVR S2
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 TVR S2. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 TVR S2 would be higher. At 2,792 cc (6 cylinders), 1989 TVR S2 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda RX-8 (189 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 1989 TVR S2. (151 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1989 TVR S2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 522 kg more than 1989 TVR S2. 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, both vehicles can yield 220 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda RX-8 | 1989 TVR S2 | |
| Make | Mazda | TVR |
| Model | RX-8 | S2 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1308 cc | 2792 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | V |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 151 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 68.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1422 kg | 900 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 3970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1450 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1120 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2290 mm |
