2003 Ford Ka 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 Ford Ka. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Ford Ka would be higher. At 2,614 cc, 2005 Mazda RX-8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mazda RX-8 (189 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 120 more horse power than 2003 Ford Ka. (69 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2003 Ford Ka. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 428 kg more than 2003 Ford Ka. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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 Ford Ka, 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, 2005 Mazda RX-8 (220 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 114 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Ford Ka. (106 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2005 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Ford Ka.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Ford Ka | 2005 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Ka | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1299 cc | 2614 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 69 HP | 189 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 106 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 962 kg | 1390 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3630 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6 L/100km | 11.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 61 L |
