2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2010 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2010 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata would be higher. At 1,837 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Mazda RX-8 (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 93 more horse power than 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (139 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 395 kg more than 2010 Mazda RX-8.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2010 Mazda RX-8 (215 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 47 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (168 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2010 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 2010 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1837 cc | 1300 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 139 HP | 232 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 8500 RPM |
| Torque | 168 Nm | 215 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1785 kg | 1390 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1341 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 64 L |
