2004 Mazda 6 vs. 2011 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2011 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 7 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 2,966 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Mazda 6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mazda RX-8 (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 2004 Mazda 6. (220 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2004 Mazda 6. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mazda 6 weights approximately 86 kg more than 2011 Mazda RX-8.
Because 2011 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 2011 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, 2004 Mazda 6 (260 Nm) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Mazda RX-8. (215 Nm). This means 2004 Mazda 6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Mazda RX-8.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mazda 6 | 2011 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 6 | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2966 cc | 1300 cc |
| Engine Type | V | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 220 HP | 232 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 8500 RPM |
| Torque | 260 Nm | 215 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1476 kg | 1390 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4750 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1341 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2703 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 9.1 L/100km | 10.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 12.4 L/100km | 14.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 64 L |
