2008 Mazda RX-8 vs. 1997 Rover 800
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 800. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Rover 800 would be higher. At 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Rover 800 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda RX-8 (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 1997 Rover 800. (173 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1997 Rover 800. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Rover 800 weights approximately 106 kg more than 2008 Mazda RX-8.
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 800, 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, 1997 Rover 800 (240 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 24 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda RX-8. (216 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 1997 Rover 800 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mazda RX-8. 1997 Rover 800 has automatic transmission and 2008 Mazda RX-8 has manual transmission. 2008 Mazda RX-8 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Rover 800 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Mazda RX-8 | 1997 Rover 800 | |
Make | Mazda | Rover |
Model | RX-8 | 800 |
Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1308 cc | 2497 cc |
Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
Horse Power | 232 HP | 173 HP |
Engine RPM | 8500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
Torque | 216 Nm | 240 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1329 kg | 1435 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4890 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1740 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1400 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2780 mm |