2004 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2013 Nissan Maxima
To start off, 2013 Nissan Maxima is newer by 9 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 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2013 Nissan Maxima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Nissan Maxima (286 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 97 more horse power than 2004 Mazda RX-8. (189 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Nissan Maxima should accelerate faster than 2004 Mazda RX-8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Nissan Maxima weights approximately 229 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, 2013 Nissan Maxima, 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, 2013 Nissan Maxima (354 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 134 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mazda RX-8. (220 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2013 Nissan Maxima 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 | 2013 Nissan Maxima | |
| Make | Mazda | Nissan |
| Model | RX-8 | Maxima |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2616 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | V |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 286 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 354 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4400 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 | 1621 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4843 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1467 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2775 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 76 L |
