2004 Mazda 6 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 6. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Mazda 6 would be higher. At 1,798 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Mazda 6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda RX-8 (212 HP @ 7500 RPM) has 93 more horse power than 2004 Mazda 6. (119 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2004 Mazda 6.
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 6, 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 (216 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 51 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mazda 6. (165 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 6. 2006 Mazda RX-8 has automatic transmission and 2004 Mazda 6 has manual transmission. 2004 Mazda 6 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Mazda RX-8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mazda 6 | 2006 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 6 | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1798 cc | 1311 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 119 HP | 212 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 7500 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 216 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4690 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 60 L |
