2005 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2006 Toyota Matrix
To start off, 2006 Toyota Matrix 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 1,786 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Toyota Matrix is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mazda RX-8 (189 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 71 more horse power than 2006 Toyota Matrix. (118 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2006 Toyota Matrix.
Because 2006 Toyota Matrix 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 Toyota Matrix 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 64 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Toyota Matrix. (156 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2005 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Toyota Matrix.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mazda RX-8 | 2006 Toyota Matrix | |
| Make | Mazda | Toyota |
| Model | RX-8 | Matrix |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1308 cc | 1786 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 156 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4360 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1570 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 10.8 L/100km | 8.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 45 L |
