2000 Chrysler ESX 3 vs. 2002 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2002 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2000 Chrysler ESX 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2000 Chrysler ESX 3 would be higher. At 2,615 cc, 2002 Mazda RX-8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mazda RX-8 (189 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 115 more horse power than 2000 Chrysler ESX 3. (74 HP @ 6400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2000 Chrysler ESX 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 Chrysler ESX 3 weights approximately 230 kg more than 2002 Mazda RX-8.
Because 2002 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 2002 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2000 Chrysler ESX 3, 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, 2000 Chrysler ESX 3 (332 Nm) has 112 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Mazda RX-8. (220 Nm). This means 2000 Chrysler ESX 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Mazda RX-8. 2000 Chrysler ESX 3 has automatic transmission and 2002 Mazda RX-8 has manual transmission. 2002 Mazda RX-8 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2000 Chrysler ESX 3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2000 Chrysler ESX 3 | 2002 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Chrysler | Mazda |
| Model | ESX 3 | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 2000 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1499 cc | 2615 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 189 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 332 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1620 kg | 1390 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4910 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3000 mm | 2710 mm |
