2003 Mazda 3 vs. 2008 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2008 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mazda 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mazda 3 would be higher. At 1,970 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda RX-8 (189 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 46 more horse power than 2003 Mazda 3. (143 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 112 kg more than 2003 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 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 2008 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Mazda 3, 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, 2008 Mazda RX-8 (220 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 33 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda 3. (187 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mazda 3 | 2008 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 3 | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 1308 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 143 HP | 189 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 187 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 200 km/hour | 223 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9 seconds | 7.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1310 kg | 1422 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.4 L/100km | 10.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 61 L |
