2004 Mazda 3 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 Mazda 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Mazda 3 would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda RX-8 (190 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 2004 Mazda 3. (149 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2004 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mazda 3 weights approximately 365 kg more than 2006 Mazda RX-8.
Because 2006 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 2006 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Mazda 3, 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, 2006 Mazda RX-8 (220 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 33 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mazda 3. (187 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2006 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mazda 3 | 2006 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 3 | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1308 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 149 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 187 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 200 km/hour | 223 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9 seconds | 7.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1785 kg | 1420 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 61 L |
