2004 Mazda RX-8 vs. 1999 Subaru Forester
To start off, 2004 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Subaru Forester. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Subaru Forester would be higher. At 2,616 cc, 2004 Mazda RX-8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mazda RX-8 (189 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 1999 Subaru Forester. (168 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1999 Subaru Forester. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Subaru Forester weights approximately 68 kg more than 2004 Mazda RX-8.
Because 1999 Subaru Forester is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2004 Mazda RX-8. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Subaru Forester will offer significantly more control. 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, 1999 Subaru Forester (240 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mazda RX-8. (220 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1999 Subaru Forester will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mazda RX-8.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mazda RX-8 | 1999 Subaru Forester | |
| Make | Mazda | Subaru |
| Model | RX-8 | Forester |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Coupe | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2616 cc | 1993 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1392 kg | 1460 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2530 mm |
