2003 Lancia Thesis 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 Lancia Thesis. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Lancia Thesis would be higher. At 2,387 cc (5 cylinders), 2003 Lancia Thesis is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda RX-8 (228 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 2003 Lancia Thesis. (169 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2003 Lancia Thesis. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Lancia Thesis weights approximately 252 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 Lancia Thesis, 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, 2003 Lancia Thesis (226 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda RX-8. (211 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2003 Lancia Thesis will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda RX-8.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Lancia Thesis | 2006 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Lancia | Mazda |
| Model | Thesis | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2387 cc | 1308 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 169 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 8200 RPM |
| Torque | 226 Nm | 211 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.4 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 19.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1680 kg | 1428 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4890 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 47 L | 61 L |
