2003 Ford Focus 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 Focus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Ford Focus would be higher. At 1,387 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Ford Focus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda RX-8 (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 159 more horse power than 2003 Ford Focus. (73 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2003 Ford Focus.
Because 2009 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 2009 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Ford Focus, 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, 2009 Mazda RX-8 (216 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 91 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Ford Focus. (125 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Ford Focus.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Ford Focus | 2009 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Focus | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1387 cc | 1306 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 73 HP | 232 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 8500 RPM |
| Torque | 125 Nm | 216 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4390 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 64 L |
