2005 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2003 Proton Saloon
To start off, 2005 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Proton Saloon. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Proton Saloon would be higher. At 1,311 cc, 2005 Mazda RX-8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mazda RX-8 (197 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 115 more horse power than 2003 Proton Saloon. (82 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2003 Proton Saloon. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 465 kg more than 2003 Proton Saloon. 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, 2003 Proton Saloon, 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 2003 Proton Saloon. (109 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2005 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Proton Saloon. 2005 Mazda RX-8 has automatic transmission and 2003 Proton Saloon has manual transmission. 2003 Proton Saloon 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 | 2003 Proton Saloon | |
| Make | Mazda | Proton |
| Model | RX-8 | Saloon |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1311 cc | 1299 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 82 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 109 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 920 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2390 mm |
