2004 Ford Focus vs. 2003 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2004 Ford Focus 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 1,991 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Ford Focus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mazda RX-8 (228 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 97 more horse power than 2004 Ford Focus. (131 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2004 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 240 kg more than 2004 Ford Focus. 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, 2004 Ford Focus, 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) has 36 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Ford Focus. (175 Nm). This means 2003 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Ford Focus.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Ford Focus | 2003 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Focus | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 1308 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 131 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 8200 RPM |
| Torque | 175 Nm | 211 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.6:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1185 kg | 1425 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4280 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.1 L/100km | 11.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 61 L |
