2003 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2010 Nissan Altima
To start off, 2010 Nissan Altima 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 2,500 cc (4 cylinders), 2010 Nissan Altima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mazda RX-8 (228 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 2010 Nissan Altima. (175 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2010 Nissan Altima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 27 kg more than 2010 Nissan Altima. 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 Nissan Altima, 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, 2010 Nissan Altima (244 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 33 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda RX-8. (211 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2010 Nissan Altima 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 | 2010 Nissan Altima | |
| Make | Mazda | Nissan |
| Model | RX-8 | Altima |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1308 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 211 Nm | 244 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | CVT |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1425 kg | 1398 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4595 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1796 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2675 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 76 L |
