2002 Ford Fiesta vs. 2006 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2006 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Ford Fiesta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Ford Fiesta would be higher. At 1,308 cc, 2006 Mazda RX-8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda RX-8 (228 HP) has 161 more horse power than 2002 Ford Fiesta. (67 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2002 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 306 kg more than 2002 Ford Fiesta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 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 2006 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Ford Fiesta, 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, 2006 Mazda RX-8 (211 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 103 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Ford Fiesta. (108 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2006 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Ford Fiesta.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Ford Fiesta | 2006 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Fiesta | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 1308 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 67 HP | 228 HP |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 211 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 74 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.5 mm | 85 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1122 kg | 1428 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3920 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 61 L |
