2002 Ford Focus vs. 2009 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2009 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Ford Focus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Ford Focus would be higher. At 1,986 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Ford Focus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda RX-8 (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 104 more horse power than 2002 Ford Focus. (128 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2002 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Ford Focus weights approximately 150 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, 2002 Ford Focus, 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 Ford Focus (325 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 109 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda RX-8. (216 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2002 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda RX-8.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Ford Focus | 2009 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Focus | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1986 cc | 1308 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 128 HP | 232 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 8500 RPM |
| Torque | 325 Nm | 216 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1275 kg | 1125 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 132 L | 64 L |
