2000 Ford Ka vs. 2007 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2007 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2000 Ford Ka. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2000 Ford Ka would be higher. At 1,306 cc, 2007 Mazda RX-8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mazda RX-8 (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 173 more horse power than 2000 Ford Ka. (59 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2000 Ford Ka. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 300 kg more than 2000 Ford Ka. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2007 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 2007 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2000 Ford Ka, 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, 2007 Mazda RX-8 (216 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 111 more torque (in Nm) than 2000 Ford Ka. (105 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2007 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2000 Ford Ka.
Compare all specifications:
| 2000 Ford Ka | 2007 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Ka | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 2000 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1299 cc | 1306 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 232 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 8500 RPM |
| Torque | 105 Nm | 216 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 74.1 mm | 73 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.5 mm | 85 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 880 kg | 1180 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3630 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 60 L |
