2001 Dodge Intrepid vs. 2009 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2009 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Dodge Intrepid. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Dodge Intrepid would be higher. At 2,736 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 Dodge Intrepid is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda RX-8 (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 2001 Dodge Intrepid. (197 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2001 Dodge Intrepid. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Dodge Intrepid weights approximately 445 kg more than 2009 Mazda RX-8.
Because 2009 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 2009 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Dodge Intrepid, 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 Dodge Intrepid (257 Nm @ 4850 RPM) has 41 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda RX-8. (216 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2001 Dodge Intrepid will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda RX-8. 2001 Dodge Intrepid has automatic transmission and 2009 Mazda RX-8 has manual transmission. 2009 Mazda RX-8 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Dodge Intrepid will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Dodge Intrepid | 2009 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Dodge | Mazda |
| Model | Intrepid | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2736 cc | 1308 cc |
| Engine Type | V | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 232 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 8500 RPM |
| Torque | 257 Nm | 216 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4850 RPM | 5500 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 | 1570 kg | 1125 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5180 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2710 mm |
