2004 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2005 Mazda 6
To start off, 2005 Mazda 6 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Mazda RX-8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Mazda RX-8 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 29 more horse power than 2005 Mazda 6. (160 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2005 Mazda 6. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mazda 6 weights approximately 47 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, 2005 Mazda 6, 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) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mazda 6. (210 Nm). This means 2004 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mazda 6.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mazda RX-8 | 2005 Mazda 6 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | RX-8 | 6 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2616 cc | 2262 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 160 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1392 kg | 1439 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 68 L |
