2005 Hyundai Elantra vs. 2004 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2005 Hyundai Elantra is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Mazda RX-8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Mazda RX-8 would be higher. At 2,616 cc, 2004 Mazda RX-8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mazda RX-8 (189 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 85 more horse power than 2005 Hyundai Elantra. (104 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2005 Hyundai Elantra.
Because 2004 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 2004 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Hyundai Elantra, 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, 2004 Mazda RX-8 (220 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 77 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Hyundai Elantra. (143 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2004 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Hyundai Elantra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Hyundai Elantra | 2004 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Hyundai | Mazda |
| Model | Elantra | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1599 cc | 2616 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 189 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 143 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1392 kg | 1392 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 61 L |
