2002 Mazda 6 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 Mazda 6. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Mazda 6 would be higher. At 1,840 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Mazda 6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda RX-8 (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 114 more horse power than 2002 Mazda 6. (118 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2002 Mazda 6. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mazda 6 weights approximately 295 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 Mazda 6, 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, 2009 Mazda RX-8 (216 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 49 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Mazda 6. (167 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Mazda 6.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Mazda 6 | 2009 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 6 | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1840 cc | 1307 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 232 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 8500 RPM |
| Torque | 167 Nm | 216 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1420 kg | 1125 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 64 L |
