2003 Ford Escape vs. 2009 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2009 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 6 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, 2009 Mazda RX-8 (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 104 more horse power than 2003 Ford Escape. (128 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2003 Ford Escape.
Because 2003 Ford Escape is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 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, 2009 Mazda RX-8 (216 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 54 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Ford Escape. (162 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Ford Escape.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Ford Escape | 2009 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Escape | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2009 |
| Body Type | SUV | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1988 cc | 1306 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 128 HP | 232 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 8500 RPM |
| Torque | 162 Nm | 216 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 64 L |
