2003 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2002 Toyota MR2
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 Toyota MR2. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Toyota MR2 would be higher. At 1,794 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Toyota MR2 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mazda RX-8 (228 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 31 more horse power than 2002 Toyota MR2. (197 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2002 Toyota MR2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Toyota MR2 weights approximately 185 kg more than 2003 Mazda RX-8.
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, 2003 Mazda RX-8 (211 Nm) has 41 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Toyota MR2. (170 Nm). This means 2003 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Toyota MR2.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mazda RX-8 | 2002 Toyota MR2 | |
| Make | Mazda | Toyota |
| Model | RX-8 | MR2 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1308 cc | 1794 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8200 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 211 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1425 kg | 1610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1150 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2440 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 72 L |
