2005 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata
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 MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata would be higher. At 1,596 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mazda RX-8 (228 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 116 more horse power than 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (112 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 15 kg more than 2005 Mazda RX-8.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata (244 Nm) has 33 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mazda RX-8. (211 Nm). This means 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mazda RX-8.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mazda RX-8 | 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | RX-8 | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1308 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 112 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 211 Nm | 244 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1065 kg | 1080 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2270 mm |
