2002 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2012 Hyundai Elantra
To start off, 2012 Hyundai Elantra 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 90 more horse power than 2012 Hyundai Elantra. (148 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2012 Hyundai Elantra.
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 Hyundai Elantra, 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 34 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Hyundai Elantra. (177 Nm @ 4700 RPM). This means 2002 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Hyundai Elantra. 2012 Hyundai Elantra has automatic transmission and 2002 Mazda RX-8 has manual transmission. 2002 Mazda RX-8 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Hyundai Elantra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Mazda RX-8 | 2012 Hyundai Elantra | |
| Make | Mazda | Hyundai |
| Model | RX-8 | Elantra |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2616 cc | 1800 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 238 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8200 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 211 Nm | 177 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4529 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1775 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1435 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 48 L |
