2005 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2004 Pontiac Vibe
To start off, 2005 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Pontiac Vibe. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Pontiac Vibe would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Pontiac Vibe is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mazda RX-8 (189 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 2004 Pontiac Vibe. (122 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2004 Pontiac Vibe. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 131 kg more than 2004 Pontiac Vibe. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 Pontiac Vibe is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2005 Mazda RX-8. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Pontiac Vibe will offer significantly more control. 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 @ 5000 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Pontiac Vibe. (160 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2005 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Pontiac Vibe.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mazda RX-8 | 2004 Pontiac Vibe | |
| Make | Mazda | Pontiac |
| Model | RX-8 | Vibe |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1308 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 122 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1356 kg | 1225 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1590 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 45 L |
