2005 Kia Optima vs. 2007 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2007 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Kia Optima. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Kia Optima would be higher. At 2,360 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mazda RX-8 (189 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 51 more horse power than 2005 Kia Optima. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 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 72 kg more than 2007 Mazda RX-8.
Because 2007 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 2007 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, 2007 Mazda RX-8 (220 Nm) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Kia Optima. (199 Nm). This means 2007 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Kia Optima.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Kia Optima | 2007 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Kia | Mazda |
| Model | Optima | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2360 cc | 1306 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 189 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 199 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1497 kg | 1425 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.4 L/100km | 12.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 61 L |
