2008 Mazda RX-8 vs. 1996 Subaru Impreza
To start off, 2008 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Subaru Impreza. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Subaru Impreza would be higher. At 1,597 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Subaru Impreza is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda RX-8 (108 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 1996 Subaru Impreza. (89 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1996 Subaru Impreza.
Because 1996 Subaru Impreza is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2008 Mazda RX-8. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Subaru Impreza will offer significantly more control. 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 (140 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Subaru Impreza. (129 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Subaru Impreza. 2008 Mazda RX-8 has automatic transmission and 1996 Subaru Impreza has manual transmission. 1996 Subaru Impreza will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Mazda RX-8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda RX-8 | 1996 Subaru Impreza | |
| Make | Mazda | Subaru |
| Model | RX-8 | Impreza |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1308 cc | 1597 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | boxer |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 129 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4360 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2530 mm |
