2002 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2005 Scion xA
To start off, 2005 Scion xA is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Mazda RX-8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Mazda RX-8 would be higher. At 2,615 cc, 2002 Mazda RX-8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mazda RX-8 (189 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 83 more horse power than 2005 Scion xA. (106 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2005 Scion xA. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 320 kg more than 2005 Scion xA. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 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 2002 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Scion xA, 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 Mazda RX-8 (220 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 78 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Scion xA. (142 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2002 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Scion xA.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Mazda RX-8 | 2005 Scion xA | |
| Make | Mazda | Scion |
| Model | RX-8 | xA |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2615 cc | 1495 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 106 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 142 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1390 kg | 1070 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 3920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1540 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2380 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 45 L |
