2008 Mazda RX-8 vs. 1998 Honda S-MX
To start off, 2008 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Honda S-MX. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Honda S-MX would be higher. At 1,973 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Honda S-MX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Honda S-MX (129 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 2008 Mazda RX-8. (108 HP @ 8200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Honda S-MX should accelerate faster than 2008 Mazda RX-8.
Because 1998 Honda S-MX 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, 1998 Honda S-MX 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, 1998 Honda S-MX (190 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda RX-8. (140 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 1998 Honda S-MX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mazda RX-8.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda RX-8 | 1998 Honda S-MX | |
| Make | Mazda | Honda |
| Model | RX-8 | S-MX |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1308 cc | 1973 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 129 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1760 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2510 mm |
