2003 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2008 Subaru Forester
To start off, 2008 Subaru Forester is newer by 5 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 1,994 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Subaru Forester is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mazda RX-8 (228 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 105 more horse power than 2008 Subaru Forester. (123 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2008 Subaru Forester. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Subaru Forester weights approximately 10 kg more than 2003 Mazda RX-8.
Because 2008 Subaru Forester is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 Mazda RX-8. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Subaru Forester will offer significantly more control. 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 27 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Subaru Forester. (184 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2003 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Subaru Forester.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mazda RX-8 | 2008 Subaru Forester | |
| Make | Mazda | Subaru |
| Model | RX-8 | Forester |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1308 cc | 1994 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | boxer |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 211 Nm | 184 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 235 km/hour | 180 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.7 seconds | 11.4 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1425 kg | 1435 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2530 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.4 L/100km | 8.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 60 L |
