2005 Mazda RX-8 vs. 1997 Nissan Maxima
To start off, 2005 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Nissan Maxima. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Nissan Maxima would be higher. At 1,995 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Nissan Maxima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mazda RX-8 (197 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 1997 Nissan Maxima. (138 HP @ 6400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1997 Nissan Maxima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 40 kg more than 1997 Nissan Maxima. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 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 2005 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Nissan Maxima, 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 Mazda RX-8 (222 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Nissan Maxima. (177 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2005 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Nissan Maxima. 2005 Mazda RX-8 has automatic transmission and 1997 Nissan Maxima has manual transmission. 1997 Nissan Maxima will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Mazda RX-8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mazda RX-8 | 1997 Nissan Maxima | |
| Make | Mazda | Nissan |
| Model | RX-8 | Maxima |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1311 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 177 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1345 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2710 mm |
