2004 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2001 Porsche 996
To start off, 2004 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Porsche 996. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Porsche 996 would be higher. At 3,596 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 Porsche 996 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Porsche 996 (317 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 128 more horse power than 2004 Mazda RX-8. (189 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Porsche 996 should accelerate faster than 2004 Mazda RX-8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Porsche 996 weights approximately 13 kg more than 2004 Mazda RX-8. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 Porsche 996 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, 2001 Porsche 996 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, 2001 Porsche 996 (370 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 150 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mazda RX-8. (220 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2001 Porsche 996 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 | 2001 Porsche 996 | |
| Make | Mazda | Porsche |
| Model | RX-8 | 996 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 2616 cc | 3596 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 317 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1392 kg | 1405 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2360 mm |
