2003 Ford Escape 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 Escape. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Ford Escape would be higher. At 1,988 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Ford Escape is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Ford Escape (128 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 2006 Mazda RX-8. (108 HP @ 8200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Ford Escape should accelerate faster than 2006 Mazda RX-8.
Because 2003 Ford Escape is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2006 Mazda RX-8. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Ford Escape will offer significantly more control. 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 Escape (162 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 22 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda RX-8. (140 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2003 Ford Escape will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda RX-8. 2006 Mazda RX-8 has automatic transmission and 2003 Ford Escape has manual transmission. 2003 Ford Escape will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Mazda RX-8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Ford Escape | 2006 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Escape | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2006 |
| Body Type | SUV | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1988 cc | 1308 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 128 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 8200 RPM |
| Torque | 162 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2710 mm |
