2004 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2007 Nissan Maxima
To start off, 2007 Nissan Maxima is newer by 3 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 3,505 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 Nissan Maxima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Nissan Maxima (255 HP) has 66 more horse power than 2004 Mazda RX-8. (189 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Nissan Maxima should accelerate faster than 2004 Mazda RX-8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Nissan Maxima weights approximately 166 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, 2007 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, 2007 Nissan Maxima (342 Nm) has 122 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mazda RX-8. (220 Nm). This means 2007 Nissan Maxima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mazda RX-8. 2007 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. 2007 Nissan Maxima will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mazda RX-8 | 2007 Nissan Maxima | |
| Make | Mazda | Nissan |
| Model | RX-8 | Maxima |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2616 cc | 3505 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | V |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 255 HP |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 342 Nm |
| 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 | 1558 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 3850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2830 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 80 L |
