2009 Mazda RX-8 vs. 1997 Seat Ibiza
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 Seat Ibiza. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Seat Ibiza would be higher. At 1,307 cc, 2009 Mazda RX-8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda RX-8 (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 183 more horse power than 1997 Seat Ibiza. (49 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1997 Seat Ibiza. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 190 kg more than 1997 Seat Ibiza. 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, 1997 Seat Ibiza, 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 129 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Seat Ibiza. (87 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Seat Ibiza.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda RX-8 | 1997 Seat Ibiza | |
| Make | Mazda | Seat |
| Model | RX-8 | Ibiza |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1307 cc | 999 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 232 HP | 49 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 216 Nm | 87 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1125 kg | 935 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 3820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2450 mm |
