2005 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2006 Nissan Xterra
To start off, 2006 Nissan Xterra 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 3,954 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Nissan Xterra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Nissan Xterra (265 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 2005 Mazda RX-8. (228 HP @ 8200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Nissan Xterra should accelerate faster than 2005 Mazda RX-8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Nissan Xterra weights approximately 115 kg more than 2005 Mazda RX-8. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 Nissan Xterra 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, 2006 Nissan Xterra 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, 2006 Nissan Xterra (385 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 174 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mazda RX-8. (211 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2006 Nissan Xterra 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 Nissan Xterra | |
| Make | Mazda | Nissan |
| Model | RX-8 | Xterra |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Coupe | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1307 cc | 3954 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | V |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 265 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 211 Nm | 385 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.3:1 |
| 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 | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1425 kg | 1540 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1910 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.4 L/100km | 12.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 80 L |
