2004 Ford Focus vs. 2011 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2011 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 7 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 2,260 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Ford Focus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mazda RX-8 (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 88 more horse power than 2004 Ford Focus. (144 HP @ 6250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2004 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 208 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 2011 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 2011 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, 2011 Mazda RX-8 (215 Nm) has 13 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Ford Focus. (202 Nm). This means 2011 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 | 2011 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Focus | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2260 cc | 1300 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 144 HP | 232 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 8500 RPM |
| Torque | 202 Nm | 215 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1182 kg | 1390 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4280 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1341 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2703 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 7.1 L/100km | 10.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 9.4 L/100km | 14.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 53 L | 64 L |
