2008 Mazda RX-8 vs. 1999 Opel Zafira
To start off, 2008 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Opel Zafira. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Opel Zafira would be higher. At 1,910 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Opel Zafira is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda RX-8 (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 147 more horse power than 1999 Opel Zafira. (85 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1999 Opel Zafira. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Opel Zafira weights approximately 191 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, 1999 Opel Zafira, 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 (216 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Opel Zafira. (188 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Opel Zafira.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda RX-8 | 1999 Opel Zafira | |
| Make | Mazda | Opel |
| Model | RX-8 | Zafira |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1308 cc | 1910 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 232 HP | 85 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 216 Nm | 188 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1329 kg | 1520 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1690 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 58 L |
