1998 Dodge Durango vs. 2006 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2006 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Dodge Durango. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Dodge Durango would be higher. At 5,210 cc (8 cylinders), 1998 Dodge Durango is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda RX-8 (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 1998 Dodge Durango. (223 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1998 Dodge Durango. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Dodge Durango weights approximately 876 kg more than 2006 Mazda RX-8.
Because 1998 Dodge Durango is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2006 Mazda RX-8. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Dodge Durango 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, 1998 Dodge Durango (399 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 183 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda RX-8. (216 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 1998 Dodge Durango will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda RX-8. 1998 Dodge Durango 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. 1998 Dodge Durango will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Dodge Durango | 2006 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Dodge | Mazda |
| Model | Durango | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2006 |
| Body Type | SUV | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5210 cc | 1311 cc |
| Engine Type | V | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 223 HP | 232 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 8500 RPM |
| Torque | 399 Nm | 216 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 2005 kg | 1129 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1810 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2710 mm |
