2002 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2011 Ford Mondeo
To start off, 2011 Ford Mondeo is newer by 9 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 2,967 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Ford Mondeo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Ford Mondeo (223 HP @ 6150 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 2002 Mazda RX-8. (189 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Ford Mondeo should accelerate faster than 2002 Mazda RX-8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Ford Mondeo weights approximately 105 kg more than 2002 Mazda RX-8. 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, 2011 Ford Mondeo, 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, 2011 Ford Mondeo (281 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 61 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Mazda RX-8. (220 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2011 Ford Mondeo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Mazda RX-8.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Mazda RX-8 | 2011 Ford Mondeo | |
| Make | Mazda | Ford |
| Model | RX-8 | Mondeo |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2615 cc | 2967 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | V |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 223 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 6150 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 281 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 229 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1390 kg | 1495 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 59 L |
