2004 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2001 Saturn Vue
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 Saturn Vue. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Saturn Vue would be higher. At 2,962 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 Saturn Vue is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mazda RX-8 (189 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 2001 Saturn Vue. (181 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2001 Saturn Vue. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Saturn Vue weights approximately 138 kg more than 2004 Mazda RX-8.
Because 2004 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 2004 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Saturn Vue, 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, 2001 Saturn Vue (263 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 43 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mazda RX-8. (220 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2001 Saturn Vue will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mazda RX-8. 2001 Saturn Vue has automatic transmission and 2004 Mazda RX-8 has manual transmission. 2004 Mazda RX-8 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Saturn Vue will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mazda RX-8 | 2001 Saturn Vue | |
| Make | Mazda | Saturn |
| Model | RX-8 | Vue |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Coupe | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2616 cc | 2962 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | V |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 181 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 263 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1392 kg | 1530 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4610 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1700 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2720 mm |
