2005 Mazda 3 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 Mazda 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Mazda 3 would be higher. At 1,596 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mazda RX-8 (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 128 more horse power than 2005 Mazda 3. (104 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2005 Mazda 3.
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 Mazda 3, 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 (216 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mazda 3. (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2007 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mazda 3 | 2007 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 3 | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 1308 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 232 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 8500 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 216 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 73 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 85 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.2 L/100km | 11.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 60 L |
