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, 2008 Mazda 3 (282 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 93 more horse power than 2004 Mazda RX-8. (189 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2004 Mazda RX-8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda 3 weights approximately 93 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, 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, 2008 Mazda 3 (576 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 356 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mazda RX-8. (220 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda 3 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 | 2008 Mazda 3 | |
Make | Mazda | Mazda |
Model | RX-8 | 3 |
Year Released | 2004 | 2008 |
Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2616 cc | 2261 cc |
Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
Horse Power | 189 HP | 282 HP |
Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5300 RPM |
Torque | 220 Nm | 576 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1392 kg | 1485 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4440 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2650 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 55 L |