2004 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2006 Nissan Frontier
To start off, 2006 Nissan Frontier is newer by 2 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 3,950 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Nissan Frontier is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Nissan Frontier (265 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 76 more horse power than 2004 Mazda RX-8. (189 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Nissan Frontier should accelerate faster than 2004 Mazda RX-8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Nissan Frontier weights approximately 138 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 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, 2006 Nissan Frontier, 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, 2006 Nissan Frontier (385 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 165 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mazda RX-8. (220 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2006 Nissan Frontier 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 | 2006 Nissan Frontier | |
| Make | Mazda | Nissan |
| Model | RX-8 | Frontier |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Pickup |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2616 cc | 3950 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | V |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 265 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 385 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1392 kg | 1530 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 5230 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1780 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 3200 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 80 L |
