2004 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2002 Nissan Maxima
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 Nissan Maxima. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Nissan Maxima 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 51 more horse power than 2002 Nissan Maxima. (138 HP @ 6400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2002 Nissan Maxima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Nissan Maxima weights approximately 23 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, 2002 Nissan Maxima, 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 39 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Nissan Maxima. (181 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2004 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Nissan Maxima. 2002 Nissan Maxima 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. 2002 Nissan Maxima will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2004 Mazda RX-8 | 2002 Nissan Maxima | |
Make | Mazda | Nissan |
Model | RX-8 | Maxima |
Year Released | 2004 | 2002 |
Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2616 cc | 1993 cc |
Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
Horse Power | 189 HP | 138 HP |
Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 6400 RPM |
Torque | 220 Nm | 181 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 | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1392 kg | 1415 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4930 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1790 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2760 mm |