2008 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2001 Oldsmobile Alero
To start off, 2008 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Oldsmobile Alero. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Oldsmobile Alero would be higher. At 2,392 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Oldsmobile Alero is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda RX-8 (189 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 2001 Oldsmobile Alero. (148 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2001 Oldsmobile Alero. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 52 kg more than 2001 Oldsmobile Alero. 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, 2001 Oldsmobile Alero, 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 10 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Oldsmobile Alero. (210 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Oldsmobile Alero.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda RX-8 | 2001 Oldsmobile Alero | |
| Make | Mazda | Oldsmobile |
| Model | RX-8 | Alero |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1308 cc | 2392 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1422 kg | 1370 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2720 mm |
