2003 GMC Sonoma vs. 2011 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2011 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 GMC Sonoma. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 GMC Sonoma would be higher. At 2,196 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 GMC Sonoma is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mazda RX-8 (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 114 more horse power than 2003 GMC Sonoma. (118 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2003 GMC Sonoma. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 GMC Sonoma weights approximately 80 kg more than 2011 Mazda RX-8.
Because 2003 GMC Sonoma is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2011 Mazda RX-8. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 GMC Sonoma 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, 2011 Mazda RX-8 (215 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 GMC Sonoma. (190 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2011 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 GMC Sonoma.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 GMC Sonoma | 2011 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | GMC | Mazda |
| Model | Sonoma | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2196 cc | 1300 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 232 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 8500 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 215 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 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 | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1470 kg | 1390 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5210 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1600 mm | 1341 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3130 mm | 2703 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 98 L | 64 L |
