1999 Kia Sportage vs. 2006 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2006 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Kia Sportage. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Kia Sportage would be higher. At 1,996 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Kia Sportage is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda RX-8 (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 106 more horse power than 1999 Kia Sportage. (126 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1999 Kia Sportage. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Kia Sportage weights approximately 328 kg more than 2006 Mazda RX-8.
Because 1999 Kia Sportage 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, 1999 Kia Sportage 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, 2006 Mazda RX-8 (216 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 41 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Kia Sportage. (175 Nm @ 4700 RPM). This means 2006 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Kia Sportage.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Kia Sportage | 2006 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Kia | Mazda |
| Model | Sportage | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1996 cc | 1311 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 126 HP | 232 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 8500 RPM |
| Torque | 175 Nm | 216 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4700 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.1 mm | 73 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.1 mm | 85 mm |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1457 kg | 1129 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1660 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2710 mm |
