2008 Mazda RX-8 vs. 1997 Rover 200
To start off, 2008 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Rover 200. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Rover 200 would be higher. At 1,994 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Rover 200 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda RX-8 (228 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 87 more horse power than 1997 Rover 200. (141 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1997 Rover 200. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 220 kg more than 1997 Rover 200. 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, 1997 Rover 200, 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 (211 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 26 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Rover 200. (185 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Rover 200.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda RX-8 | 1997 Rover 200 | |
| Make | Mazda | Rover |
| Model | RX-8 | 200 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1308 cc | 1994 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 141 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 211 Nm | 185 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1425 kg | 1205 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2510 mm |
