2002 Ford Ka vs. 2008 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2008 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Ford Ka. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Ford Ka would be higher. At 1,596 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Ford Ka is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda RX-8 (228 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 93 more horse power than 2002 Ford Ka. (135 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2002 Ford Ka. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 289 kg more than 2002 Ford Ka. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 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 2008 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Ford Ka, 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, 2008 Mazda RX-8 (211 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 36 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Ford Ka. (175 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Ford Ka.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Ford Ka | 2008 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Ka | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 1308 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 135 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 8200 RPM |
| Torque | 175 Nm | 211 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 174 km/hour | 230 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1136 kg | 1425 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3660 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.9 L/100km | 11.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 42 L | 61 L |
