2003 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2012 Ford Flex
To start off, 2012 Ford Flex is newer by 9 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 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Ford Flex is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Ford Flex (262 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 2003 Mazda RX-8. (228 HP @ 8200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Ford Flex should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda RX-8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Ford Flex weights approximately 603 kg more than 2003 Mazda RX-8. 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, 2012 Ford Flex, 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, 2012 Ford Flex (336 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 125 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda RX-8. (211 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2012 Ford Flex will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda RX-8. 2012 Ford Flex has automatic transmission and 2003 Mazda RX-8 has manual transmission. 2003 Mazda RX-8 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Ford Flex will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Mazda RX-8 | 2012 Ford Flex | |
Make | Mazda | Ford |
Model | RX-8 | Flex |
Year Released | 2003 | 2012 |
Body Type | Coupe | Crossover |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1308 cc | 3500 cc |
Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | V |
Horse Power | 228 HP | 262 HP |
Engine RPM | 8200 RPM | 6250 RPM |
Torque | 211 Nm | 336 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automatic |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 7 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1425 kg | 2028 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 5126 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1928 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1727 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2995 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 70 L |