2004 Chevrolet Trans Sport vs. 2003 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2004 Chevrolet Trans Sport is newer by 1 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 3,350 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Chevrolet Trans Sport is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mazda RX-8 (228 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 2004 Chevrolet Trans Sport. (183 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2004 Chevrolet Trans Sport. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Chevrolet Trans Sport weights approximately 325 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, 2004 Chevrolet Trans Sport, 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 Trans Sport (285 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 74 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda RX-8. (211 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2004 Chevrolet Trans Sport will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda RX-8. 2004 Chevrolet Trans Sport 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. 2004 Chevrolet Trans Sport will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Chevrolet Trans Sport | 2003 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mazda |
| Model | Trans Sport | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3350 cc | 1308 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 183 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 8200 RPM |
| Torque | 285 Nm | 211 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1750 kg | 1425 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5120 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1810 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3050 mm | 2710 mm |
