2005 Ford Fiesta vs. 2010 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2010 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Ford Fiesta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Ford Fiesta would be higher. At 1,300 cc, 2010 Mazda RX-8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Mazda RX-8 (212 HP @ 7500 RPM) has 153 more horse power than 2005 Ford Fiesta. (59 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2005 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 445 kg more than 2005 Ford Fiesta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2010 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 2010 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Ford Fiesta, 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, 2010 Mazda RX-8 (215 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 104 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Ford Fiesta. (111 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2010 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Ford Fiesta. 2010 Mazda RX-8 has automatic transmission and 2005 Ford Fiesta has manual transmission. 2005 Ford Fiesta will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2010 Mazda RX-8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Ford Fiesta | 2010 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Fiesta | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1299 cc | 1300 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 212 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 7500 RPM |
| Torque | 111 Nm | 215 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 966 kg | 1411 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 42 L | 64 L |
