2004 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2009 Subaru Forester
To start off, 2009 Subaru Forester is newer by 5 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 20 more horse power than 2009 Subaru Forester. (169 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2009 Subaru Forester. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Subaru Forester weights approximately 241 kg more than 2004 Mazda RX-8.
Because 2009 Subaru Forester is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2004 Mazda RX-8. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Subaru Forester will offer significantly more control. 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, 2009 Subaru Forester (229 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 9 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mazda RX-8. (220 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2009 Subaru Forester will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mazda RX-8. 2009 Subaru Forester 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. 2009 Subaru Forester will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mazda RX-8 | 2009 Subaru Forester | |
| Make | Mazda | Subaru |
| Model | RX-8 | Forester |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Coupe | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2616 cc | 2456 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | boxer |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 169 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 229 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1392 kg | 1633 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4570 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1710 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 60 L |
