2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2008 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2008 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata would be higher. At 1,835 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda RX-8 (228 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 73 more horse power than 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (155 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 246 kg more than 2008 Mazda RX-8.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2008 Mazda RX-8 (211 Nm) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (171 Nm). This means 2008 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 2008 Mazda RX-8 | |
Make | Mazda | Mazda |
Model | MX-5 Miata | RX-8 |
Year Released | 2001 | 2008 |
Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1835 cc | 1308 cc |
Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
Horse Power | 155 HP | 228 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 8200 RPM |
Torque | 171 Nm | 211 Nm |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1671 kg | 1425 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4440 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1780 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1350 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2710 mm |