2004 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2002 Mazda 2
To start off, 2004 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Mazda 2. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Mazda 2 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 123 more horse power than 2002 Mazda 2. (66 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2002 Mazda 2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 232 kg more than 2002 Mazda 2. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2002 Mazda 2, 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 RX-8 (220 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Mazda 2. (160 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2004 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Mazda 2.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mazda RX-8 | 2002 Mazda 2 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | RX-8 | 2 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2616 cc | 1399 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 66 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1392 kg | 1160 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 3930 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1550 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2500 mm |
