2009 Mazda RX-8 vs. 1973 Porsche 914
To start off, 2009 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Porsche 914. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Porsche 914 would be higher. At 1,795 cc (4 cylinders), 1973 Porsche 914 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda RX-8 (108 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 1973 Porsche 914. (85 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1973 Porsche 914. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 159 kg more than 1973 Porsche 914. 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, both vehicles can yield 140 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda RX-8 | 1973 Porsche 914 | |
| Make | Mazda | Porsche |
| Model | RX-8 | 914 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1308 cc | 1795 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 85 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.6:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1125 kg | 966 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 3990 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2460 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 61 L |
