2004 Chevrolet Equinox vs. 2006 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2006 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Chevrolet Equinox. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Chevrolet Equinox would be higher. At 3,425 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Chevrolet Equinox is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda RX-8 (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 2004 Chevrolet Equinox. (182 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2004 Chevrolet Equinox. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Chevrolet Equinox weights approximately 533 kg more than 2006 Mazda RX-8.
Because 2006 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 2006 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Chevrolet Equinox, 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, 2004 Chevrolet Equinox (285 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 69 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda RX-8. (216 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2004 Chevrolet Equinox will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda RX-8.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Chevrolet Equinox | 2006 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mazda |
| Model | Equinox | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2006 |
| Body Type | SUV | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3425 cc | 1311 cc |
| Engine Type | V | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 182 HP | 232 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 8500 RPM |
| Torque | 285 Nm | 216 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 73 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 85 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1662 kg | 1129 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4800 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1770 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 60 L |
