2001 Chevrolet Impala vs. 2004 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2004 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Chevrolet Impala. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Chevrolet Impala would be higher. At 3,350 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 Chevrolet Impala is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mazda RX-8 (189 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 2001 Chevrolet Impala. (180 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2001 Chevrolet Impala. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Chevrolet Impala weights approximately 186 kg more than 2004 Mazda RX-8.
Because 2004 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 2004 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Chevrolet Impala, 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, 2001 Chevrolet Impala (278 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 58 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mazda RX-8. (220 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2001 Chevrolet Impala will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mazda RX-8. 2001 Chevrolet Impala has automatic transmission and 2004 Mazda RX-8 has manual transmission. 2004 Mazda RX-8 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Chevrolet Impala will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Chevrolet Impala | 2004 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mazda |
| Model | Impala | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3350 cc | 2616 cc |
| Engine Type | V | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 180 HP | 189 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 278 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1578 kg | 1392 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5090 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3030 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 117 L | 61 L |
