2003 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2009 Mazda 6
To start off, 2009 Mazda 6 is newer by 6 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 2,183 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mazda 6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mazda RX-8 (228 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 46 more horse power than 2009 Mazda 6. (182 HP @ 3500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda 6. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda 6 weights approximately 145 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, 2009 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, 2009 Mazda 6 (400 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 189 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda RX-8. (211 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda 6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda RX-8.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mazda RX-8 | 2009 Mazda 6 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | RX-8 | 6 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1308 cc | 2183 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 182 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8200 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 211 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 16.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 235 km/hour | 218 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.7 seconds | 8.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1425 kg | 1570 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4760 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.4 L/100km | 5.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 64 L |
