2005 Chevrolet Cobalt 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 Chevrolet Cobalt. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Chevrolet Cobalt would be higher. At 2,198 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Chevrolet Cobalt is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda RX-8 (228 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 88 more horse power than 2005 Chevrolet Cobalt. (140 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2005 Chevrolet Cobalt. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Chevrolet Cobalt weights approximately 67 kg more than 2006 Mazda RX-8.
Because 2006 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 2006 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Chevrolet Cobalt, 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, 2006 Mazda RX-8 (211 Nm) has 8 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Chevrolet Cobalt. (203 Nm). This means 2006 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Chevrolet Cobalt.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Chevrolet Cobalt | 2006 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mazda |
| Model | Cobalt | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2198 cc | 1308 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 8200 RPM |
| Torque | 203 Nm | 211 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.1 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1495 kg | 1428 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.4 L/100km | 11.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 49 L | 61 L |
