2005 Ford Focus vs. 2009 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2009 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Ford Focus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Ford Focus would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Ford Focus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda RX-8 (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 2005 Ford Focus. (212 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2005 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Ford Focus weights approximately 150 kg more than 2009 Mazda RX-8.
Because 2009 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 2009 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Ford Focus, 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 Focus (310 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 94 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda RX-8. (216 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2005 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda RX-8.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Ford Focus | 2009 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Focus | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1307 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 212 HP | 232 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 8500 RPM |
| Torque | 310 Nm | 216 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1275 kg | 1125 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4190 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 10.3 L/100km | 13.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 64 L |
