2004 Honda Element vs. 2006 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2006 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Honda Element. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Honda Element would be higher. At 2,354 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Honda Element is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda RX-8 (212 HP @ 7500 RPM) has 54 more horse power than 2004 Honda Element. (158 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2004 Honda Element.
Because 2004 Honda Element is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2006 Mazda RX-8. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Honda Element will offer significantly more control. 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 216 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Honda Element | 2006 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Honda | Mazda |
| Model | Element | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Crossover | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2354 cc | 1311 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 212 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 7500 RPM |
| Torque | 216 Nm | 216 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 9.8 L/100km | 9.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 60 L |
