2004 Ford Ranger vs. 2002 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2004 Ford Ranger is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Mazda RX-8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Mazda RX-8 would be higher. At 2,983 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Ford Ranger is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mazda RX-8 (189 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 2004 Ford Ranger. (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2004 Ford Ranger. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Ford Ranger weights approximately 252 kg more than 2002 Mazda RX-8.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 Ford Ranger (251 Nm) has 31 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Mazda RX-8. (220 Nm). This means 2004 Ford Ranger will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Mazda RX-8.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Ford Ranger | 2002 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Ranger | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2983 cc | 2615 cc |
| Engine Type | V | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 189 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 251 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1642 kg | 1390 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5130 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1650 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3200 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 74 L | 61 L |
