2009 Mazda RX-8 vs. 1989 Plymouth Acclaim
To start off, 2009 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Plymouth Acclaim. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Plymouth Acclaim would be higher. At 2,501 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Plymouth Acclaim is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda RX-8 (228 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 128 more horse power than 1989 Plymouth Acclaim. (100 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1989 Plymouth Acclaim. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 171 kg more than 1989 Plymouth Acclaim. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1989 Plymouth Acclaim, 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 (211 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Plymouth Acclaim. (184 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Plymouth Acclaim.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda RX-8 | 1989 Plymouth Acclaim | |
| Make | Mazda | Plymouth |
| Model | RX-8 | Acclaim |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1306 cc | 2501 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8200 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 211 Nm | 184 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1425 kg | 1254 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4610 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2630 mm |
