2009 Mazda RX-8 vs. 1997 Opel Frontera
To start off, 2009 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Opel Frontera. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Opel Frontera would be higher. At 2,197 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Opel Frontera is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda RX-8 (229 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 95 more horse power than 1997 Opel Frontera. (134 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1997 Opel Frontera. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Opel Frontera weights approximately 214 kg more than 2009 Mazda RX-8.
Because 1997 Opel Frontera is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 Mazda RX-8. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Opel Frontera will offer significantly more control. 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, 1997 Opel Frontera (203 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 44 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda RX-8. (159 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 1997 Opel Frontera 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 | 1997 Opel Frontera | |
| Make | Mazda | Opel |
| Model | RX-8 | Frontera |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Coupe | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1299 cc | 2197 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 229 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 159 Nm | 203 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1425 kg | 1639 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4700 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1760 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2710 mm |
