2003 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2007 Mazda 3
To start off, 2007 Mazda 3 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mazda RX-8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mazda RX-8 would be higher. At 2,260 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mazda RX-8 (228 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 72 more horse power than 2007 Mazda 3. (156 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2007 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Mazda 3 weights approximately 55 kg more than 2003 Mazda RX-8.
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, 2007 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, 2003 Mazda RX-8 (211 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 8 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Mazda 3. (203 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2003 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Mazda RX-8 | 2007 Mazda 3 | |
Make | Mazda | Mazda |
Model | RX-8 | 3 |
Year Released | 2003 | 2007 |
Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1308 cc | 2260 cc |
Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
Horse Power | 228 HP | 156 HP |
Engine RPM | 8200 RPM | 6500 RPM |
Torque | 211 Nm | 203 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.7:1 |
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 | 1480 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4520 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1760 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2650 mm |
Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.4 L/100km | 8.4 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 55 L |