2004 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2007 Toyota RAV4
To start off, 2007 Toyota RAV4 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 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 22 more horse power than 2007 Toyota RAV4. (167 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2007 Toyota RAV4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Toyota RAV4 weights approximately 106 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, 2007 Toyota RAV4, 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 Toyota RAV4 (224 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 4 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mazda RX-8. (220 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2007 Toyota RAV4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mazda RX-8. 2007 Toyota RAV4 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 Toyota RAV4 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mazda RX-8 | 2007 Toyota RAV4 | |
| Make | Mazda | Toyota |
| Model | RX-8 | RAV4 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Coupe | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2616 cc | 2362 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 224 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1392 kg | 1498 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4610 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1690 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 60 L |
