2004 Kia Spectra vs. 2007 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2007 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Kia Spectra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Kia Spectra would be higher. At 1,786 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Kia Spectra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mazda RX-8 (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 108 more horse power than 2004 Kia Spectra. (124 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2004 Kia Spectra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Kia Spectra weights approximately 27 kg more than 2007 Mazda RX-8.
Because 2007 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 2007 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Kia Spectra, 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, 2007 Mazda RX-8 (216 Nm) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Kia Spectra. (161 Nm). This means 2007 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Kia Spectra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Kia Spectra | 2007 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Kia | Mazda |
| Model | Spectra | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1786 cc | 1306 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 124 HP | 232 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 8500 RPM |
| Torque | 161 Nm | 216 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1207 kg | 1180 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 7.4 L/100km | 9.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 9.8 L/100km | 13.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.7 L/100km | 11.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 60 L |
