2003 Holden Zafira 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 Holden Zafira. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Holden Zafira would be higher. At 2,198 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Holden Zafira is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda RX-8 (228 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 82 more horse power than 2003 Holden Zafira. (146 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2003 Holden Zafira. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Holden Zafira weights approximately 32 kg more than 2006 Mazda RX-8.
Because 2006 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 2006 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Holden Zafira, 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, 2006 Mazda RX-8 (211 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 8 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Holden Zafira. (203 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Holden Zafira.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Holden Zafira | 2006 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Holden | Mazda |
| Model | Zafira | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2198 cc | 1308 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 146 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 8200 RPM |
| Torque | 203 Nm | 211 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1460 kg | 1428 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1640 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2710 mm |
