2004 Honda Element vs. 2002 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2004 Honda Element 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 2,615 cc, 2002 Mazda RX-8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mazda RX-8 (189 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 2004 Honda Element. (153 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2004 Honda Element. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Honda Element weights approximately 147 kg more than 2002 Mazda RX-8.
Because 2002 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 2002 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Honda Element, 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, both vehicles can yield 220 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles. 2004 Honda Element has automatic transmission and 2002 Mazda RX-8 has manual transmission. 2002 Mazda RX-8 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Honda Element will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Honda Element | 2002 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Honda | Mazda |
| Model | Element | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Crossover | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2360 cc | 2615 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 153 HP | 189 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1537 kg | 1390 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 61 L |
