2003 Dodge Kahuna vs. 2008 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2008 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Dodge Kahuna. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Dodge Kahuna would be higher. At 2,429 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Dodge Kahuna is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda RX-8 (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 2003 Dodge Kahuna. (212 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2003 Dodge Kahuna.
Because 2008 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 2008 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Dodge Kahuna, 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, 2003 Dodge Kahuna (339 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 123 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda RX-8. (216 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2003 Dodge Kahuna will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mazda RX-8. 2003 Dodge Kahuna has automatic transmission and 2008 Mazda RX-8 has manual transmission. 2008 Mazda RX-8 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Dodge Kahuna will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Dodge Kahuna | 2008 Mazda RX-8 | |
Make | Dodge | Mazda |
Model | Kahuna | RX-8 |
Year Released | 2003 | 2008 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2429 cc | 1308 cc |
Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
Horse Power | 212 HP | 232 HP |
Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 8500 RPM |
Torque | 339 Nm | 216 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 4430 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1980 mm | 1780 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1710 mm | 1350 mm |