2002 Audi A8 vs. 2010 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2010 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Audi A8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Audi A8 would be higher. At 2,771 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Mazda RX-8 (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 2002 Audi A8. (191 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2002 Audi A8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Audi A8 weights approximately 120 kg more than 2010 Mazda RX-8.
Because 2010 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 2010 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Audi A8, 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, 2002 Audi A8 (280 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 2010 Mazda RX-8. (215 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2002 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2010 Mazda RX-8. 2002 Audi A8 has automatic transmission and 2010 Mazda RX-8 has manual transmission. 2010 Mazda RX-8 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Audi A8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Audi A8 | 2010 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Audi | Mazda |
| Model | A8 | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2771 cc | 1300 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 191 HP | 232 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 8500 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 215 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 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 | 1510 kg | 1390 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5170 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1341 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3020 mm | 2700 mm |
