2003 Ford C-MAX vs. 2006 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2006 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Ford C-MAX. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Ford C-MAX would be higher. At 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Ford C-MAX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda RX-8 (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 88 more horse power than 2003 Ford C-MAX. (144 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2003 Ford C-MAX. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Ford C-MAX weights approximately 263 kg more than 2006 Mazda RX-8.
Because 2006 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 2006 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Ford C-MAX, 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 Ford C-MAX (344 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 128 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda RX-8. (216 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2003 Ford C-MAX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda RX-8.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Ford C-MAX | 2006 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | C-MAX | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 1311 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 144 HP | 232 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 8500 RPM |
| Torque | 344 Nm | 216 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 73 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1392 kg | 1129 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4340 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1600 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 132 L | 60 L |
