2003 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2010 Kia Soul
To start off, 2010 Kia Soul is newer by 7 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 1,600 cc (4 cylinders), 2010 Kia Soul is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mazda RX-8 (228 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 106 more horse power than 2010 Kia Soul. (122 HP @ 6300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2010 Kia Soul. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 264 kg more than 2010 Kia Soul. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2010 Kia Soul, 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 55 more torque (in Nm) than 2010 Kia Soul. (156 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2003 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2010 Kia Soul.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Mazda RX-8 | 2010 Kia Soul | |
Make | Mazda | Kia |
Model | RX-8 | Soul |
Year Released | 2003 | 2010 |
Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1308 cc | 1600 cc |
Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
Horse Power | 228 HP | 122 HP |
Engine RPM | 8200 RPM | 6300 RPM |
Torque | 211 Nm | 156 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
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 | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1425 kg | 1161 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4105 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1786 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1610 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2550 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 48 L |