2001 Ford Mondeo 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 Ford Mondeo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Ford Mondeo would be higher. At 1,753 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Ford Mondeo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda RX-8 (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 117 more horse power than 2001 Ford Mondeo. (115 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2001 Ford Mondeo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Ford Mondeo weights approximately 267 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 Ford Mondeo, 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, 2009 Mazda RX-8 (216 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 41 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Ford Mondeo. (175 Nm @ 3950 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Ford Mondeo.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Ford Mondeo | 2009 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Mondeo | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1753 cc | 1308 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 232 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 8500 RPM |
| Torque | 175 Nm | 216 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1392 kg | 1125 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2710 mm |
