2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2007 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2007 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata would be higher. At 1,596 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mazda RX-8 (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 128 more horse power than 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (104 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2007 Mazda RX-8 (216 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 82 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (134 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2007 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 2007 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 1308 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 232 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 8500 RPM |
| Torque | 134 Nm | 216 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 73 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 85 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.1 L/100km | 11.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 60 L |
