2001 Mazda Sport Wagon 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 Mazda Sport Wagon. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Mazda Sport Wagon would be higher. At 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Mazda Sport Wagon is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda RX-8 (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 102 more horse power than 2001 Mazda Sport Wagon. (130 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2001 Mazda Sport Wagon. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Mazda Sport Wagon weights approximately 107 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 Mazda Sport Wagon, 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) has 33 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Mazda Sport Wagon. (183 Nm). This means 2009 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Mazda Sport Wagon.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Mazda Sport Wagon | 2009 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | Sport Wagon | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 1307 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 130 HP | 232 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 8500 RPM |
| Torque | 183 Nm | 216 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1232 kg | 1125 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4340 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2710 mm |
