2001 Daihatsu Copen vs. 2002 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2002 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Daihatsu Copen. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Daihatsu Copen 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 127 more horse power than 2001 Daihatsu Copen. (62 HP @ 6800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2001 Daihatsu Copen. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 590 kg more than 2001 Daihatsu Copen. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2001 Daihatsu Copen, 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, 2002 Mazda RX-8 (220 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 112 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Daihatsu Copen. (108 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2002 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Daihatsu Copen.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Daihatsu Copen | 2002 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Daihatsu | Mazda |
| Model | Copen | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 659 cc | 2615 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 62 HP | 189 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6800 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 800 kg | 1390 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3400 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1480 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 46 L | 61 L |
