2008 Mazda RX-8 vs. 1990 Rover 400
To start off, 2008 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Rover 400. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Rover 400 would be higher. At 1,590 cc (4 cylinders), 1990 Rover 400 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda RX-8 (189 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 1990 Rover 400. (115 HP @ 6300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1990 Rover 400. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 347 kg more than 1990 Rover 400. 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, 1990 Rover 400, 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 76 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Rover 400. (144 Nm @ 5200 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Rover 400.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda RX-8 | 1990 Rover 400 | |
| Make | Mazda | Rover |
| Model | RX-8 | 400 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1990 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1308 cc | 1590 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 144 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 90 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1422 kg | 1075 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2560 mm |
