2005 Kia Spectra vs. 2006 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2006 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Kia Spectra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Kia Spectra would be higher. At 1,975 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Kia Spectra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda RX-8 (228 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 90 more horse power than 2005 Kia Spectra. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2005 Kia Spectra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 146 kg more than 2005 Kia Spectra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 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 2006 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Kia Spectra, 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, 2006 Mazda RX-8 (211 Nm) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Kia Spectra. (184 Nm). This means 2006 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Kia Spectra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Kia Spectra | 2006 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Kia | Mazda |
| Model | Spectra | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1975 cc | 1308 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 8200 RPM |
| Torque | 184 Nm | 211 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.1:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1282 kg | 1428 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.6 L/100km | 11.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 61 L |
