2005 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2006 Pontiac G6
To start off, 2006 Pontiac G6 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 3,490 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Pontiac G6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mazda RX-8 (228 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 2006 Pontiac G6. (201 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2006 Pontiac G6. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Pontiac G6 weights approximately 287 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 Pontiac G6, 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 Pontiac G6 (301 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mazda RX-8. (211 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2006 Pontiac G6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mazda RX-8. 2006 Pontiac G6 has automatic transmission and 2005 Mazda RX-8 has manual transmission. 2005 Mazda RX-8 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Pontiac G6 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mazda RX-8 | 2006 Pontiac G6 | |
| Make | Mazda | Pontiac |
| Model | RX-8 | G6 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1308 cc | 3490 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | V |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 201 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 211 Nm | 301 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1065 kg | 1352 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11 L/100km | 10.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 61 L |
