2005 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2006 Mazda 6
To start off, 2006 Mazda 6 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Mazda RX-8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Mazda RX-8 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 55 more horse power than 2006 Mazda 6. (134 HP @ 3500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2006 Mazda 6. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mazda 6 weights approximately 150 kg more than 2005 Mazda RX-8.
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, 2006 Mazda 6, 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, 2006 Mazda 6 (310 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mazda RX-8. (220 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2006 Mazda 6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mazda RX-8.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mazda RX-8 | 2006 Mazda 6 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | RX-8 | 6 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2614 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 310 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 18.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| 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 | 1540 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.8 L/100km | 6.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 64 L |
