2002 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2012 Ford Escape
To start off, 2012 Ford Escape is newer by 10 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 2,616 cc, 2002 Mazda RX-8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mazda RX-8 (238 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 61 more horse power than 2012 Ford Escape. (177 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2012 Ford Escape. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Ford Escape weights approximately 319 kg more than 2002 Mazda RX-8.
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, 2012 Ford Escape, 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 (211 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Ford Escape. (184 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2002 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Ford Escape.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Mazda RX-8 | 2012 Ford Escape | |
| Make | Mazda | Ford |
| Model | RX-8 | Escape |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2616 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 238 HP | 177 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 211 Nm | 184 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline / Electric Hybrid |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | CVT |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1338 kg | 1657 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4437 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1806 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1720 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2619 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 57 L |
