2005 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2001 Mazda Sport Wagon
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 Sport Wagon. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Mazda Sport Wagon would be higher. At 2,614 cc, 2005 Mazda RX-8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mazda RX-8 (189 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 2001 Mazda Sport Wagon. (130 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2001 Mazda Sport Wagon. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 158 kg more than 2001 Mazda Sport Wagon. 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 Sport Wagon, 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 (220 Nm) has 37 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Mazda Sport Wagon. (183 Nm). This means 2005 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Mazda Sport Wagon.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mazda RX-8 | 2001 Mazda Sport Wagon | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | RX-8 | Sport Wagon |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2614 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 130 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 183 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1390 kg | 1232 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4340 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2630 mm |
