2003 Mazda 6 vs. 2005 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2005 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mazda 6. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mazda 6 would be higher. At 2,614 cc, 2005 Mazda RX-8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mazda RX-8 (189 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 70 more horse power than 2003 Mazda 6. (119 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda 6. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mazda 6 weights approximately 30 kg more than 2005 Mazda RX-8.
Because 2005 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 2005 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Mazda 6, 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, 2005 Mazda RX-8 (220 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 52 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda 6. (168 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2005 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda 6.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Mazda 6 | 2005 Mazda RX-8 | |
Make | Mazda | Mazda |
Model | 6 | RX-8 |
Year Released | 2003 | 2005 |
Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1798 cc | 2614 cc |
Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
Horse Power | 119 HP | 189 HP |
Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 7000 RPM |
Torque | 168 Nm | 220 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1420 kg | 1390 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4690 mm | 4430 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1780 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1350 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2710 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 61 L |