2009 Mazda RX-8 vs. 1956 Porsche 356
To start off, 2009 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 53 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1956 Porsche 356. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1956 Porsche 356 would be higher. At 1,488 cc (4 cylinders), 1956 Porsche 356 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda RX-8 (228 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 158 more horse power than 1956 Porsche 356. (70 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1956 Porsche 356. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 675 kg more than 1956 Porsche 356. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda RX-8 | 1956 Porsche 356 | |
| Make | Mazda | Porsche |
| Model | RX-8 | 356 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1956 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1306 cc | 1488 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1425 kg | 750 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 3860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2110 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 52 L |
