2009 Mazda RX-8 vs. 1998 Subaru Impreza
To start off, 2009 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Subaru Impreza. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Subaru Impreza would be higher. At 1,597 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Subaru Impreza is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda RX-8 (229 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 140 more horse power than 1998 Subaru Impreza. (89 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1998 Subaru Impreza. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 420 kg more than 1998 Subaru Impreza. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 Subaru Impreza 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, 1998 Subaru Impreza 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, 2009 Mazda RX-8 (159 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 31 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Subaru Impreza. (128 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Subaru Impreza.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda RX-8 | 1998 Subaru Impreza | |
| Make | Mazda | Subaru |
| Model | RX-8 | Impreza |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1299 cc | 1597 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | boxer |
| Horse Power | 229 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 159 Nm | 128 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 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 | 1005 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4360 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2530 mm |
