2003 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2002 Mazda 6
To start off, 2003 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Mazda 6. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Mazda 6 would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Mazda 6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mazda RX-8 (228 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 98 more horse power than 2002 Mazda 6. (130 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2002 Mazda 6.
Because 2003 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 2003 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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, 2003 Mazda RX-8 (211 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 23 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Mazda 6. (188 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2003 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Mazda 6.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mazda RX-8 | 2002 Mazda 6 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | RX-8 | 6 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1308 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 130 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 211 Nm | 188 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1425 kg | 1425 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 64 L |
