2004 Ford Focus vs. 2005 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2005 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Ford Focus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Ford Focus would be higher. At 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Ford Focus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mazda RX-8 (228 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 100 more horse power than 2004 Ford Focus. (128 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2004 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Ford Focus weights approximately 330 kg more than 2005 Mazda RX-8.
Because 2005 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 2005 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, 2005 Mazda RX-8 (211 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 36 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Ford Focus. (175 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2005 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 | 2005 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Focus | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 1308 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 128 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 8200 RPM |
| Torque | 175 Nm | 211 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.8:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1395 kg | 1065 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2840 mm |
