2004 Kia Retona vs. 2003 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2004 Kia Retona is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mazda RX-8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mazda RX-8 would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Kia Retona is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mazda RX-8 (228 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 138 more horse power than 2004 Kia Retona. (90 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2004 Kia Retona. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Kia Retona weights approximately 445 kg more than 2003 Mazda RX-8.
Because 2004 Kia Retona is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 Mazda RX-8. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Kia Retona 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, 2003 Mazda RX-8 (211 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 6 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Kia Retona. (205 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2003 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Kia Retona.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Kia Retona | 2003 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Kia | Mazda |
| Model | Retona | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2003 |
| Body Type | SUV | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1308 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 8200 RPM |
| Torque | 205 Nm | 211 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1870 kg | 1425 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4010 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1840 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2370 mm | 2710 mm |
