2005 Ford Mustang vs. 2003 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2005 Ford Mustang is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mazda RX-8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mazda RX-8 would be higher. At 4,015 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mazda RX-8 (228 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 2005 Ford Mustang. (202 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2005 Ford Mustang. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Ford Mustang weights approximately 72 kg more than 2003 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 Ford Mustang (326 Nm) has 115 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda RX-8. (211 Nm). This means 2005 Ford Mustang will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda RX-8.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Ford Mustang | 2003 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Mustang | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4015 cc | 1308 cc |
| Engine Type | V | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 202 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 8200 RPM |
| Torque | 326 Nm | 211 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1497 kg | 1425 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 10.7 L/100km | 11.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 61 L |
