2011 Mazda RX-8 vs. 1992 Ford Tempo
To start off, 2011 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1992 Ford Tempo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1992 Ford Tempo would be higher. At 2,307 cc (4 cylinders), 1992 Ford Tempo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mazda RX-8 (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 135 more horse power than 1992 Ford Tempo. (97 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1992 Ford Tempo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 225 kg more than 1992 Ford Tempo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 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 2011 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1992 Ford Tempo, 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, 2011 Mazda RX-8 (215 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 44 more torque (in Nm) than 1992 Ford Tempo. (171 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2011 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1992 Ford Tempo. 1992 Ford Tempo has automatic transmission and 2011 Mazda RX-8 has manual transmission. 2011 Mazda RX-8 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1992 Ford Tempo will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2011 Mazda RX-8 | 1992 Ford Tempo | |
| Make | Mazda | Ford |
| Model | RX-8 | Tempo |
| Year Released | 2011 | 1992 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1300 cc | 2307 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 232 HP | 97 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 215 Nm | 171 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1390 kg | 1165 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1341 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2703 mm | 2540 mm |
