2005 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2002 Peugeot 306
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 Peugeot 306. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Peugeot 306 would be higher. At 1,587 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Peugeot 306 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mazda RX-8 (228 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 128 more horse power than 2002 Peugeot 306. (100 HP @ 5750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2002 Peugeot 306. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 215 kg more than 2002 Peugeot 306. 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 Peugeot 306, 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 76 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Peugeot 306. (135 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2005 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Peugeot 306.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mazda RX-8 | 2002 Peugeot 306 | |
| Make | Mazda | Peugeot |
| Model | RX-8 | 306 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1307 cc | 1587 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8200 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 211 Nm | 135 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1425 kg | 1210 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2550 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 45 L |
