2004 Ford Focus vs. 2010 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2010 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 6 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 1,388 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Ford Focus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Mazda RX-8 (212 HP @ 7500 RPM) has 84 more horse power than 2004 Ford Focus. (128 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2004 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 134 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 2010 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 2010 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, 2010 Mazda RX-8 (215 Nm) has 41 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Ford Focus. (174 Nm). This means 2010 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Ford Focus. 2010 Mazda RX-8 has automatic transmission and 2004 Ford Focus has manual transmission. 2004 Ford Focus will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2010 Mazda RX-8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Ford Focus | 2010 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Focus | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2010 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1388 cc | 1300 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 128 HP | 212 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 7500 RPM |
| Torque | 174 Nm | 215 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1277 kg | 1411 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1341 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 43 L | 64 L |
