2008 Mazda RX-8 vs. 1991 Mazda 121
To start off, 2008 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Mazda 121. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Mazda 121 would be higher. At 1,323 cc (4 cylinders), 1991 Mazda 121 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda RX-8 (189 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 118 more horse power than 1991 Mazda 121. (71 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1991 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 522 kg more than 1991 Mazda 121. 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, 1991 Mazda 121, 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 116 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Mazda 121. (104 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda RX-8 | 1991 Mazda 121 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | RX-8 | 121 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1991 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1308 cc | 1323 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 71 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 104 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 71 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 223 km/hour | 155 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1422 kg | 900 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 3820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2400 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 43 L |
