2005 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2001 Mazda 323
To start off, 2005 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 1,324 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Mazda 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mazda RX-8 (197 HP) has 123 more horse power than 2001 Mazda 323. (74 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2001 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 238 kg more than 2001 Mazda 323. 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, 2001 Mazda 323, 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 113 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Mazda 323. (109 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2005 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Mazda 323. 2005 Mazda RX-8 has automatic transmission and 2001 Mazda 323 has manual transmission. 2001 Mazda 323 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 | 2001 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | RX-8 | 323 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1311 cc | 1324 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 74 HP |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 109 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1147 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2850 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.9 L/100km | 8.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 55 L |
