2005 Lexus RX vs. 2002 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2005 Lexus RX 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 2,999 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Lexus RX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mazda RX-8 (238 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 2005 Lexus RX. (201 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2005 Lexus RX. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Lexus RX weights approximately 572 kg more than 2002 Mazda RX-8.
Because 2005 Lexus RX is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2002 Mazda RX-8. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Lexus RX will offer significantly more control. 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 Lexus RX (296 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 85 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Mazda RX-8. (211 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2005 Lexus RX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Mazda RX-8. 2005 Lexus RX has automatic transmission and 2002 Mazda RX-8 has manual transmission. 2002 Mazda RX-8 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Lexus RX will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Lexus RX | 2002 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Lexus | Mazda |
| Model | RX | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2002 |
| Body Type | SUV | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2999 cc | 2616 cc |
| Engine Type | V | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 238 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 8200 RPM |
| Torque | 296 Nm | 211 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1910 kg | 1338 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4750 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 72 L | 61 L |
