2005 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2002 Mazda Laputa
To start off, 2005 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Mazda Laputa. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Mazda Laputa would be higher. At 1,308 cc, 2005 Mazda RX-8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mazda RX-8 (228 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 176 more horse power than 2002 Mazda Laputa. (52 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2002 Mazda Laputa. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 315 kg more than 2002 Mazda Laputa. 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, 2002 Mazda Laputa, 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 (211 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 148 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Mazda Laputa. (63 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2005 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Mazda Laputa. 2002 Mazda Laputa has automatic transmission and 2005 Mazda RX-8 has manual transmission. 2005 Mazda RX-8 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Mazda Laputa will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mazda RX-8 | 2002 Mazda Laputa | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | RX-8 | Laputa |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1308 cc | 657 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 52 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8200 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 211 Nm | 63 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1065 kg | 750 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2370 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 30 L |
