2005 AC Cobra vs. 2006 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2006 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 AC Cobra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 AC Cobra would be higher. At 3,506 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 AC Cobra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 AC Cobra (350 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 242 more horse power than 2006 Mazda RX-8. (108 HP @ 8200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 AC Cobra should accelerate faster than 2006 Mazda RX-8.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2005 AC Cobra (400 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 260 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda RX-8. (140 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2005 AC Cobra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda RX-8. 2006 Mazda RX-8 has automatic transmission and 2005 AC Cobra has manual transmission. 2005 AC Cobra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Mazda RX-8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 AC Cobra | 2006 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | AC | Mazda |
| Model | Cobra | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3506 cc | 1308 cc |
| Engine Type | V | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 350 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 8200 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1210 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2300 mm | 2710 mm |
