2009 Mazda RX-8 vs. 1985 Plymouth Horizon
To start off, 2009 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Plymouth Horizon. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Plymouth Horizon would be higher. At 1,591 cc (4 cylinders), 1985 Plymouth Horizon is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda RX-8 (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 170 more horse power than 1985 Plymouth Horizon. (62 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1985 Plymouth Horizon.
Because 2009 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 2009 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1985 Plymouth Horizon, 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, 2009 Mazda RX-8 (216 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 99 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Plymouth Horizon. (117 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Plymouth Horizon.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda RX-8 | 1985 Plymouth Horizon | |
| Make | Mazda | Plymouth |
| Model | RX-8 | Horizon |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1985 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1306 cc | 1591 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 232 HP | 62 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 216 Nm | 117 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 4190 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2530 mm |
