2009 Mazda RX-8 vs. 1972 ZAZ 966
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 ZAZ 966. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 ZAZ 966 would be higher. At 1,308 cc, 2009 Mazda RX-8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda RX-8 (189 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 162 more horse power than 1972 ZAZ 966. (27 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1972 ZAZ 966. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 680 kg more than 1972 ZAZ 966. 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. Let's talk about torque, 2009 Mazda RX-8 (220 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 168 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 ZAZ 966. (52 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 ZAZ 966.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda RX-8 | 1972 ZAZ 966 | |
| Make | Mazda | ZAZ |
| Model | RX-8 | 966 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1308 cc | 885 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | V |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 27 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 52 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78.1 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 54.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1420 kg | 740 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 3740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1540 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2170 mm |
