2002 Jeep Wrangler 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 Jeep Wrangler. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Jeep Wrangler would be higher. At 2,464 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Jeep Wrangler is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda RX-8 (228 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 106 more horse power than 2002 Jeep Wrangler. (122 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2002 Jeep Wrangler. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 33 kg more than 2002 Jeep Wrangler. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 Jeep Wrangler is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2006 Mazda RX-8. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Jeep Wrangler will offer significantly more control. 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 18 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Jeep Wrangler. (193 Nm @ 2900 RPM). This means 2006 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Jeep Wrangler.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Jeep Wrangler | 2006 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Jeep | Mazda |
| Model | Wrangler | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2006 |
| Body Type | SUV | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2464 cc | 1308 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 122 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 8200 RPM |
| Torque | 193 Nm | 211 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2900 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 98.3 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81 mm | 85 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1395 kg | 1428 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3890 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2380 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 61 L |
