2003 Hyundai Tiburon 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 Hyundai Tiburon. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Hyundai Tiburon would be higher. At 1,966 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Hyundai Tiburon is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda RX-8 (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 94 more horse power than 2003 Hyundai Tiburon. (138 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2003 Hyundai Tiburon.
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 Hyundai Tiburon, 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) has 36 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Hyundai Tiburon. (180 Nm). This means 2009 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Hyundai Tiburon.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Hyundai Tiburon | 2009 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Hyundai | Mazda |
| Model | Tiburon | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1966 cc | 1306 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 232 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 8500 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 216 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2710 mm |
