2005 Ford Escape 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 Ford Escape. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Ford Escape would be higher. At 2,999 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Ford Escape is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda RX-8 (228 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 2005 Ford Escape. (193 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2005 Ford Escape. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Ford Escape weights approximately 69 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 Ford Escape, 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, 2005 Ford Escape (262 Nm) has 51 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda RX-8. (211 Nm). This means 2005 Ford Escape will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda RX-8.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Ford Escape | 2006 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Escape | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2006 |
| Body Type | SUV | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2999 cc | 1308 cc |
| Engine Type | V | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 193 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 8200 RPM |
| Torque | 262 Nm | 211 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 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 | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1497 kg | 1428 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1780 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 10.7 L/100km | 11.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 61 L |
