2009 Mazda RX-8 vs. 1972 Mercedes-Benz 230.4
To start off, 2009 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 37 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Mercedes-Benz 230.4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Mercedes-Benz 230.4 would be higher. At 2,307 cc (4 cylinders), 1972 Mercedes-Benz 230.4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda RX-8 (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 124 more horse power than 1972 Mercedes-Benz 230.4. (108 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1972 Mercedes-Benz 230.4.
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. Let's talk about torque, 2009 Mazda RX-8 (216 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 29 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Mercedes-Benz 230.4. (187 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Mercedes-Benz 230.4.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda RX-8 | 1972 Mercedes-Benz 230.4 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | RX-8 | 230.4 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1306 cc | 2307 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 232 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 216 Nm | 187 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 65 L |
