2001 GMC Sonoma vs. 2006 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2006 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 GMC Sonoma. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 GMC Sonoma would be higher. At 2,194 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 GMC Sonoma is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 GMC Sonoma (118 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 2006 Mazda RX-8. (108 HP @ 8200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 GMC Sonoma should accelerate faster than 2006 Mazda RX-8.
Because 2001 GMC Sonoma is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2006 Mazda RX-8. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 GMC Sonoma will offer significantly more control. 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 GMC Sonoma (190 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda RX-8. (140 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2001 GMC Sonoma will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda RX-8. 2006 Mazda RX-8 has automatic transmission and 2001 GMC Sonoma has manual transmission. 2001 GMC Sonoma will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Mazda RX-8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 GMC Sonoma | 2006 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | GMC | Mazda |
| Model | Sonoma | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2194 cc | 1308 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 8200 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 5210 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1600 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3130 mm | 2710 mm |
