2008 Mazda RX-8 vs. 1996 Xedos 6
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 Xedos 6. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Xedos 6 would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Xedos 6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda RX-8 (189 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 83 more horse power than 1996 Xedos 6. (106 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1996 Xedos 6. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 282 kg more than 1996 Xedos 6. 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, 1996 Xedos 6, 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 82 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Xedos 6. (138 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Xedos 6.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda RX-8 | 1996 Xedos 6 | |
| Make | Mazda | Xedos |
| Model | RX-8 | 6 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1308 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 106 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 138 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1422 kg | 1140 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4570 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2620 mm |
