1998 Honda Accord 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 Honda Accord. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Honda Accord would be higher. At 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Honda Accord is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Honda Accord (150 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 2006 Mazda RX-8. (108 HP @ 8200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Honda Accord should accelerate faster 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, 1998 Honda Accord, 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, 1998 Honda Accord (186 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 46 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda RX-8. (140 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 1998 Honda Accord will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda RX-8.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Honda Accord | 2006 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Honda | Mazda |
| Model | Accord | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 1308 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 8200 RPM |
| Torque | 186 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2710 mm |
