2004 Honda HR-V vs. 2008 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2008 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Honda HR-V. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Honda HR-V would be higher. At 1,672 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Honda HR-V is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda RX-8 (189 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 76 more horse power than 2004 Honda HR-V. (113 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2004 Honda HR-V. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 302 kg more than 2004 Honda HR-V. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 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 2008 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Honda HR-V, 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, 2008 Mazda RX-8 (220 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 89 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Honda HR-V. (131 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Honda HR-V.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Honda HR-V | 2008 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Honda | Mazda |
| Model | HR-V | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1672 cc | 1308 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 189 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 131 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 75 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1120 kg | 1422 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4020 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1600 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2360 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 73 L | 61 L |
