2005 Kia Optima vs. 2002 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2005 Kia Optima is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Mazda RX-8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Mazda RX-8 would be higher. At 2,670 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mazda RX-8 (238 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 68 more horse power than 2005 Kia Optima. (170 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2005 Kia Optima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Kia Optima weights approximately 149 kg more than 2002 Mazda RX-8.
Because 2002 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 2002 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Kia Optima, 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 Kia Optima (245 Nm) has 34 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Mazda RX-8. (211 Nm). This means 2005 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Mazda RX-8.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Kia Optima | 2002 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Kia | Mazda |
| Model | Optima | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2670 cc | 2616 cc |
| Engine Type | V | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 238 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 8200 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 211 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1487 kg | 1338 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 61 L |
