2009 Mazda RX-8 vs. 1997 Toyota Avensis
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 Toyota Avensis. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Toyota Avensis would be higher. At 1,988 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Toyota Avensis is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda RX-8 (229 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 106 more horse power than 1997 Toyota Avensis. (123 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1997 Toyota Avensis. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 175 kg more than 1997 Toyota Avensis. 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 Toyota Avensis, 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, 1997 Toyota Avensis (178 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 19 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda RX-8. (159 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 1997 Toyota Avensis 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 Toyota Avensis | |
| Make | Mazda | Toyota |
| Model | RX-8 | Avensis |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1299 cc | 1988 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 229 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8500 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 159 Nm | 178 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 237 km/hour | 200 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7 seconds | 9.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1425 kg | 1250 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2640 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 60 L |
