2003 Dodge Stratus vs. 2005 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2005 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Dodge Stratus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Dodge Stratus would be higher. At 2,429 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Dodge Stratus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mazda RX-8 (228 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 82 more horse power than 2003 Dodge Stratus. (146 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2003 Dodge Stratus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Dodge Stratus weights approximately 315 kg more than 2005 Mazda RX-8.
Because 2005 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 2005 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Dodge Stratus, 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 Stratus (214 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 3 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mazda RX-8. (211 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2003 Dodge Stratus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mazda RX-8. 2003 Dodge Stratus has automatic transmission and 2005 Mazda RX-8 has manual transmission. 2005 Mazda RX-8 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Dodge Stratus will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Dodge Stratus | 2005 Mazda RX-8 | |
Make | Dodge | Mazda |
Model | Stratus | RX-8 |
Year Released | 2003 | 2005 |
Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2429 cc | 1308 cc |
Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
Horse Power | 146 HP | 228 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 8200 RPM |
Torque | 214 Nm | 211 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1065 kg |
Wheelbase Size | 2750 mm | 2840 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 61 L |