2004 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2012 Nissan Sentra
To start off, 2012 Nissan Sentra is newer by 8 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 12 more horse power than 2012 Nissan Sentra. (177 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2012 Nissan Sentra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Nissan Sentra weights approximately 28 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, 2012 Nissan Sentra, 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, 2012 Nissan Sentra (233 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 13 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mazda RX-8. (220 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2012 Nissan Sentra 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 | 2012 Nissan Sentra | |
| Make | Mazda | Nissan |
| Model | RX-8 | Sentra |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2616 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 177 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 233 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | CVT |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1392 kg | 1420 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4575 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1791 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1511 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2685 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 55 L |
