2002 Hyundai Elantra vs. 2005 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2005 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Hyundai Elantra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Hyundai Elantra would be higher. At 1,996 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Hyundai Elantra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mazda RX-8 (228 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 91 more horse power than 2002 Hyundai Elantra. (137 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2002 Hyundai Elantra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 230 kg more than 2002 Hyundai Elantra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 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 2005 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Hyundai Elantra, 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, 2005 Mazda RX-8 (211 Nm) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Hyundai Elantra. (183 Nm). This means 2005 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Hyundai Elantra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Hyundai Elantra | 2005 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Hyundai | Mazda |
| Model | Elantra | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1996 cc | 1307 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 137 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 8200 RPM |
| Torque | 183 Nm | 211 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 | 1195 kg | 1425 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2680 mm |
