2004 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2008 Mazda 3
To start off, 2008 Mazda 3 is newer by 4 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 84 more horse power than 2008 Mazda 3. (105 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2008 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 132 kg more than 2008 Mazda 3. 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, 2008 Mazda 3, 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 75 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda 3. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2004 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mazda RX-8 | 2008 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | RX-8 | 3 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2616 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 105 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1392 kg | 1260 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 55 L |
