2009 Mazda RX-8 vs. 1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass
To start off, 2009 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass would be higher. At 2,835 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda RX-8 (229 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 105 more horse power than 1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass. (124 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass weights approximately 15 kg more than 2009 Mazda RX-8.
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, 1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass, 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, 1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass (217 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 58 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda RX-8. (159 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda RX-8.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda RX-8 | 1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass | |
| Make | Mazda | Oldsmobile |
| Model | RX-8 | Cutlass |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1299 cc | 2835 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 229 HP | 124 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 159 Nm | 217 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1425 kg | 1440 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4930 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2740 mm |
