1996 Dodge Intrepid vs. 2006 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2006 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Dodge Intrepid. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Dodge Intrepid would be higher. At 3,522 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Dodge Intrepid is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda RX-8 (228 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 1996 Dodge Intrepid. (214 HP @ 6400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1996 Dodge Intrepid. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Dodge Intrepid weights approximately 77 kg more than 2006 Mazda RX-8.
Because 2006 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 2006 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Dodge Intrepid, 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, 1996 Dodge Intrepid (339 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 128 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda RX-8. (211 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 1996 Dodge Intrepid will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda RX-8. 1996 Dodge Intrepid has automatic transmission and 2006 Mazda RX-8 has manual transmission. 2006 Mazda RX-8 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Dodge Intrepid will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Dodge Intrepid | 2006 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Dodge | Mazda |
| Model | Intrepid | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3522 cc | 1308 cc |
| Engine Type | V | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 214 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 8200 RPM |
| Torque | 339 Nm | 211 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 96 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1505 kg | 1428 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5126 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 61 L |
